An Afternoon in Munich, Hiding Away in the Old Pinakothek

This art museum itself is a witness to history, with its steady brick walls housing half of Europe's artistic heritage. The biggest surprise is that, due to the Neue Pinakothek being under renovation, the special exhibition "From Goya to Manet" here allows us to admire the solemnity of the Renaissance and touch the brilliance of Impressionism under the same roof. Dürer and Rembrandt Self-Portrait (1500) - Albrecht Dürer This is the museum's treasure and an unmissable masterpiece. Dürer stares directly at the viewer, imitating the frontal pose of Jesus Christ, and the sacred confidence he exudes strikes deeply. Notice the detail of his fingers touching the fur collar; every strand of hair and texture of the fur is so realistic it sends chills down your spine. Self-Portrait (1629) - Rembrandt A young Rembrandt. At this time, he had not yet experienced life's hardships. Light and shadow fall on his face, and his eyes reveal a mysterious yet keen exploration. The famous "Rembrandt lighting" makes its first appearance here. Van Gogh and Monet (These treasures, usually housed in the Neue Pinakothek, can now be seen here!) Sunflowers - Van Gogh A world-famous painting that needs no introduction. This version has a pale turquoise background, which further highlights the flowers' burning vitality. Standing before the original, you can clearly see the thick brushstrokes creating a three-dimensional effect—an eternal flame in his heart. Orchard in Blossom - Van Gogh Spring in Arles is so brilliant under Van Gogh’s brush. Twisted tree trunks and pink-white blossoms intertwine with rhythm, as if you can hear the wind blowing through Provence. Water Lilies - Monet From Van Gogh’s passion to Monet’s tranquility. The blue-green pond reflects the sky, with no contour lines, only the flow of light and color. Standing before this painting, you feel completely calm. Renoir, Cézanne, and Canova Portrait of M. Bernard - Renoir Renoir’s brushstrokes are always so gentle. The gentleman’s profile in the painting is elegant, and the softly blurred background is full of life’s breath. Still Life - Cézanne The apples of Cézanne, the father of modern art! The seemingly casual arrangement is actually full of rigorous thought about structure and volume. Paris - Canova This marble statue is stunning. Paris, the handsome man from Greek mythology, poses lazily and elegantly. The marble is carved to feel as smooth as skin, as if it is not stone but warm flesh. 🏛️ About the Alte Pinakothek Art Museum Not only one of the oldest art museums in the world but also the place with the richest collection of Rubens. Here, you can spend an entire afternoon traveling from German rigor to French romance, from classical solemnity to modern freedom. 🎫 Tips: Tickets are only 1 euro on Sundays! If you happen to be in Munich on a Sunday, don’t miss this nearly free top-tier art feast.