Dortmund museums and galleries feature all of the usual collections that you would expect from a European gallery — fine art, archaeology and other priceless pieces. But Dortmund also offers some more eclectic places that showcase German cookbooks, giraffes and old medicines.
Ostwall Art Museum
The Ostwall Art Museum (Ostwall 7) is one of Dortmund’s most popular museums. Its collection of 20th and 21th century art contains over 2,500 paintings and sculptures. The Expressionists are well-represented here (like Brücke and Blue Rider), as well as works by photographer Jochen Gerz and sculptors Archipenko and Maillol.
German Cookbook Museum
Whether you love cooking or eating, the German Cookbook Museum (Deutsches Kochbuchmuseum, An der Buschmühle 1) is sure to please. There is a fine collection of delicious recipes, most courtesy of the 19th century German cook Henriette Davidis. In addition, the museum features an interesting exhibit about the role of women in this time, and the evolution of cooking technology through the 1960s.
Museum Of Art And Cultural History
This Dortmund Museum of Art (Museum für Kunst- und Kulturgeschichte, Hansastraße 31) is an historical place in itself, as it’s the oldest art gallery in the Ruhr area. But there’s more than just age here.
A visitor to this museum will find plenty of old uncommon artifacts and ancient everyday items. Some of the highlights you shouldn’t miss are “the Golden Treasure of Dortmund,” Conrad von Soest’s Madonna paintings and some beautiful and rare pieces from the Renaissance.
Apothecary Museum
The Apothecary Museum (Apotheken-Museum, Markt 4) is an interesting foray into the world of medicine and pills. It is housed in an old pharmacy (in fact, Dortmund’s oldest) that dates back to 1392. Apart from a unique showcase of old pill boxes and cutting equipment, there are some actual drugs on display here, like the medieval Viagra exhibit!
Tours are available by appointment only.
Giraffe Museum
Do you love giraffes? Then this private collection (Wickeder Hellweg 25) is a must-visit for you. A strange gathering of all things giraffe — from giraffe-shaped sculptures to giraffe-adorned teapots — make this a one-of-a-kind museum. Don’t forget to make a reservation in advance.
