Jewish Museum Berlin

History museum · Kreuzberg

Jewish Museum Berlin

History museum · Kreuzberg

5

Lindenstraße 9-14, 10969 Berlin, Germany

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Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by Photo by Paul Sullivan
Jewish Museum Berlin by Photo by Paul Sullivan
Jewish Museum Berlin by Photo by Paul Sullivan
Jewish Museum Berlin by Linus Lintner/Courtesy Jewish Museum Berlin
Jewish Museum Berlin by Günter Schneider/Courtesy Jewish Museum Berlin
Jewish Museum Berlin by Courtesy Jewish Museum Berlin
Jewish Museum Berlin by Jens Ziehe/Courtesy Jewish Museum Berlin
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null
Jewish Museum Berlin by null

Highlights

Berlin's Jewish Museum artfully blends striking Libeskind architecture with immersive exhibits tracing Jewish life and history in Germany.  

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Lindenstraße 9-14, 10969 Berlin, Germany Get directions

jmberlin.de
@juedischesmuseumberlin

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Lindenstraße 9-14, 10969 Berlin, Germany Get directions

+49 30 25993549
jmberlin.de
@juedischesmuseumberlin

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Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

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@cntraveler

The 10 Best Museums in Berlin

"A master class in museum design and how architecture can not only complement and enhance a collection but become part of it (the space is a fusion of an 18th-century building and a contemporary addition by Daniel Libeskind that slices against that original structure like a dagger scraping bone), Jewish Museum Berlin is as disquieting as it is perversely beautiful. Through that original structure (which is just as chilling in its own right, with contextual exhibits explaining basic tenets of Judaism in childlike simplest terms for Europeans who’ve never been tangentially exposed to the religion due to the practicing population’s annihilation and exile) visitors descend underground into Libeskind's order-less creation in which documents of the Holocaust and surrounding events are held. The floors slant, uneven, and the walls jut out at odd angles. Which way are you supposed to go? What horrors await you? When this part of the museum is silent, as it mostly is, all you can hear are confused footfalls and sighs." - Jennifer Ceaser

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-museums-in-berlin
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@cntraveler

Women Who Travel Podcast: A Cultural History of Eyeliner Around the World

"ZH: Yes. And, uh, I actually went on a pilgrimage there to visit her at the museum which was an incredible experience."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/women-who-travel-podcast-zahra-hankir
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@afar

"The architecturally striking Jewish Museum is the best place in Berlin to get an overview of German-Jewish relations and to understand the nature of the integration ofthe two cultures before the Holocaust’s horrors. Designed by Daniel Libeskind, the building is clad in polished silver metal and features severe angles and thin window slits that create a deliberately jarring impression. The interior is equally intriguing, especially the three long, intersecting corridors that lead to installations addressing aspects of the Holocaust: a garden of pillars meant to disorient; a windowless Holocaust Tower; and a space filled with thousands of grimacing iron masks that grind together as you walk on them. Across the street, the Jewish Academy (open to the public) has a related research center, library, and educational institution."

The Best Things to Do in Berlin
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@afar

"The architecturally striking Jewish Museum is the best place in Berlin to get an overview of German-Jewish relations and to understand the nature of the integration ofthe two cultures before the Holocaust’s horrors. Designed by Daniel Libeskind, the building is clad in polished silver metal and features severe angles and thin window slits that create a deliberately jarring impression. The interior is equally intriguing, especially the three long, intersecting corridors that lead to installations addressing aspects of the Holocaust: a garden of pillars meant to disorient; a windowless Holocaust Tower; and a space filled with thousands of grimacing iron masks that grind together as you walk on them. Across the street, the Jewish Academy (open to the public) has a related research center, library, and educational institution."

The Best Museums in Berlin
View Postcard for Jewish Museum Berlin
@afar

"The architecturally striking Jewish Museum is the best place in Berlin to get an overview of German-Jewish relations and to understand the nature of the integration ofthe two cultures before the Holocaust’s horrors. Designed by Daniel Libeskind, the building is clad in polished silver metal and features severe angles and thin window slits that create a deliberately jarring impression. The interior is equally intriguing, especially the three long, intersecting corridors that lead to installations addressing aspects of the Holocaust: a garden of pillars meant to disorient; a windowless Holocaust Tower; and a space filled with thousands of grimacing iron masks that grind together as you walk on them. Across the street, the Jewish Academy (open to the public) has a related research center, library, and educational institution."

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The Perfect Weekend in Berlin
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rastor 13

Google
You visit an old building and walk from the inside to the new one. Except for the style of the new building (minimal with edges and cuts) that creates the illusion of the void and has an inclination at the basement and the garden, nothing else really makes you feel anything. It seems like the Jewish people wanted to have a museum for their artists, rather than shouting the genocide

Konstantin

Google
Incredibly intresting and well-done museum. First of all, the architecture of buildings itself is a piece of art. Every detail is making sense. It’s better to have minimum of 2 hours to see the core exposition. There no entrance fee + you can download free app with audio-guide in different languages.

Konstantina Tsonaka

Google
It is a must. Also the building from the inside was amazing, it leaves you a feeling of emptyness, but there was something there before it got empty, the memory. You need for sure some hours. Definitely worth many visits.

Sasha Popova

Google
Great museum, definetely worth visiting, free of charge, but need to take a free ticket, however, there were plenty of them, we didn't wait

Yevgeny Cherp

Google
The Kadishman "Fallen Leaves" memorial is amazing. The rest of the museum is just ok. The building itself is beautiful also.

Nicole Herold

Google
Impressive collection & curated history in the core collection. The building architecture invoked the feeling of being unbalanced & and confused, which is how Jews lived their lives for years during the 20th century. The special exhibit on sex was well worth the price. Very clever & insightful. The grounds were perfect for a picnic lunch. Well worth the visit.

P Mallory (Pauline)

Google
Amazing Architecture. Really enjoyed the space as it was more of an art installation than Museum. Must visit if in Berlin.

Emilio Eguia

Google
The main exhibition is free and very well presented. Recommended to book in advance with timeslot, just to avoid the line and save maybe 10 minutes
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Lanier D.

Yelp
This was a powerful, immersive, informative, interesting, and inspiring experience. I feel like the best way to tolerance is to learn. If you choose to ignore, you will continue to be ignorant. In these trying times in America and throughout the world it is important to learn from history and be aware so it doesn't repeat itself. While in Berlin we went to this museum to learn more about the Jewish diaspora in Germany. My knowledge of the Jewish experience is from the United States perspective and for me it was important to hear, read, and see the story from a country that played a significant part in the history of the Jewish people. The museum traces the history of the cultural, social, political, and influence of the Jewish people in Germany and throughout the world. It is not only a museum, it is an art gallery, and the architecture of the building is somewhat unassuming from the outside. Through photographs, religious objects, newspapers, letters, and artwork it is an immersive space that appeals to your humanity. From their progression throughout history to the persecution in the holocaust this museum is a powerful testament to the resilience of the Jewish people. With the the atrocities that they endured in Germany it is a strong reminder that we must be empathetic allies. My wife and I really appreciated this museum and feel like many should visit cultural museums wherever they may be.

Nicolas C.

Yelp
This shit cost me 112$ and it's probably the shitiest museum I ever went to. Only lectures, no interactive things and no showers. +you can walk on metal jew faces tho .
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Carolyn V.

Yelp
The Good: :: the The Libeskind Building is an interesting architectural design :: the Voids offers up a space that when you go into it, causes you to feel like you were in a gas chamber, as it has high concrete walls, is extremely dark, and very cold. it was a very immersive experience and all it was was a space you could step into, nothing more. impressive that so much could be done and be so effective with just a properly designed space. The Bad: :: the layout of The Libeskind Building was quite confusing. i am unsure if it was intentional but it was a bit bespoke in the corridors :: the The Libeskind Building is really just a physical, architectural tribute. there are not many informational components in the building, just a few small exhibits from the Nazi era/the Holocaust. we were looking for more information and exhibits around those things but left feeling quite unsatisfied :: the Shalekhet was interesting but not much more than needing a few minutes to look at at best :: the "This Place" exhibit was a bit dull The Ugly: :: none Would I go back? No. It seems like a venue that is a one-time deal, and since I've done it, I've no reason to go back to it. The content and information wasn't compelling enough to convince me otherwise.
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Jasmine A.

Yelp
The Jewish Museum is not just about the holocaust but about Jewish history in general, and I found it very interesting. There was a lot to see, and my sister and I spent about 4 hours in the museum, including a brief break for coffee and delicious berry crumble in the museum café. This is not a museum you want to rush through, and I recommend allotting at least a few hours for your visit. I can understand the zig zag design of the building not being to everyone's liking as it was a bit confusing to navigate and you had to be careful not to miss an exhibit tucked away down a corridor. I really enjoyed the Garden of Exile, which consisted of 49 tall, concrete pillars slanted at an angle meant to induce disorientation; the Holocaust Tower, an empty, unheated room with the only light source coming from a small slit in the roof; and Fallen Leaves, an exhibit in the Memory Void area of the museum which consists of over 10, 000 metal faces meant to represent victims of war and violence. These exhibits certainly made you stop and think for a moment. Definitely a museum worth seeing, and if you're interested in history, this is not a museum to miss. One of the highlights not only of my time in Berlin, but of my time in Europe
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Katherine C.

Yelp
Two floors were closed. The Garden of exiles was very powerful. Brought me to tears. I wish the other two floors were open. The all berlin pass got us in for free. We used the audio guide but it wasn't necessary. The Gardens past the Cafe was nice. Confusion on the exit. Two stairs...one leads to the Alphabet room where the walking on faces is hidden way in back. The exit is the stairway you originally came down. Free bag and coat check. The people in the red and white scarves are staff.
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Ruggy J.

Yelp
One of the more powerful museum experiences you'll have, especially considering being in the epicenter of the Holocaust. One of the most symbolic rooms you'll encounter is the Memory Void with the installation 'Shalekhet'. More than 10,000 faces with open mouths, cut from heavy round iron plates, cover the ground floor to commemorate those lost in the genocide. When you walk throughout the space, you can't help but feel emotional as the sound of iron reverberates off the surface of the walls surrounding the installation. It's a somber experience you won't soon forget. The Memory Void is just one of many installations that will leave you pensive as you put yourself in the shoes of those who suffered during this dark time in history. But such a beautifully designed tribute with striking architecture from Daniel Libeskind will make you feel a sense of joy. I'd venture to say it's a must stop if you're in Berlin for more than just partying for 72 hours straight at Berghain.

Jordan M.

Yelp
We visited at 1015am on a Friday and it was already pretty busy. The first building was a little underwhelming. It had artistic interpretations of the holocaust, like dark narrow rooms. As someone who has heard from holocaust survivors, I feel like their stories were more effective and wish they focused on that instead. The other building is the history and was better. Although you will need to grab a guide to read a little more about what the items actually are. I wish the history part was more in depth and more informative. I skipped the audio guide because I like going at my own pace. Maybe that would have been better? But a lot of objects on exhibit were just a name and not an explanation. They have a nice cafe too with reasonably priced coffee and snacks. We spent a comfortable 2 hours there and that seemed adequate. You could spend more with the audio guide and watching more of the videos. But the place did not wow me and make me feel like I need to come back.
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Gregory S.

Yelp
This museum is very thorough. It takes you to different places in thought, sight, and feelings. There are videos, photos, considerate captions, various floors and architecture (themes, ideas, strategic) throughout. I don't want to give too much away, but there are three exhibits that stand as my favorite in conveying what has happened: -10,000 Faces (some walk on them to hear sounds, while some just look in awe) -Silent Room (you can enter, stand still, or just look up and around) -49 Columns (you can see these columns from the street above as well) I've been to a few WWII and Holocaust Memorial Museum's and this one is like none other. Outside of what is displayed and the collective exhibits, the museum architecture itself has multiple stories related to what the various shapes mean. If you can't make it to Berlin to see this, attempt to view as much as possible online.

Paige S.

Yelp
I had a terrible experience here. Visiting from another country and I brought my proof of full vaccination yet the ticket attendants told me they would only accept the QR code used in Germany and sent me to a nearby pharmacy to obtain the QR code. I visited 3 different pharmacies in the area and each one said the QR code was for German nationals only. The pharmacist even wrote me a note to give to the museum staff. I showed them the note but they still wouldn't allow entrance and then directed me to a 4th pharmacy a 25 minute walk away. Terrible customer experience and were only allowing German nationals in.
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Janice C.

Yelp
It's hard to ignore Berlin's Jewish history, the glaring evidence is seen in every corner/building/hisorical landmark of this city. I was curious about the Jewish Museum, a much celebrated work of Daniel Libeskind. Architecturally very modern and progressive for Berlin when it opened back in 2001, the twisted/zigzag patterned building is divided into 3 axes depicting the exile, Holocaust and continuity of Jewish life and history in Berlin from then until now. Read the individual stories of Jews as they try to escape the Nazi regime, their persecution and heroic actions of those who survived. Make sure to check out the outside garden and the dark room where everything is pitch black except for a strip of light in the ceiling. My favorite exhibition is on the second floor called "Fallen Leaves" where 10,000 faces punched out of steel are distributed on the ground. Visitors are encouraged to walk on them. Stepping on these faces gave me goosebumps as they rattled and knocked against each other. It was a very powerful experience that's not to be missed. Admission is € 8.00, audioguide is an addtional 3. Make sure to decompress and relax in the courtyard area near the cafe, you'll need it after hours of exploring the museum.
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Tracey A.

Yelp
At the start of the 20th century, Berlin was the largest Jewish city in the world. By 1945, a few less Jews... Even if you've been to other Jewish museums or Holocaust museums Berlin's Jewish Museum (or Jüdisches Museum) should not be missed. It's a way not just to understand the horrors perpetrated upon the Jews but also to understand their enormous pre-WWII contributions. An artful wing evocatively sets the mood, depicting early Jewish life intercut by the Holocaust, and followed by a future (for those who lived). This part is worth seeing even though it's echoed in many other things you'll view while touring Germany. Where you'll likely spend more time and see more unique things is in the rest of the museum, which details all aspects of Jewish life in Germany, from the earliest times through the present. This information is well and clearly presented and the audio tour (available for rent) is a good one: interesting, informative, and well-paced. The guidebook I had recommended allotting three hours to tour the museum. The friend I was with wanted less. I clocked out a bit early as a result, and have regretted it ever since (somebody tell me, what happened to the Jews??). If you go, be sure to set aside at least three hours for the museum. If you're with someone who requires less time they can go drink wine in the museum cafe while you finish up.
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Estebam F.

Yelp
This museum was an awesome museum. I recommend you visit this museum. Basically they give you a little radio. You then take this radio and swipe it near the stations they have set up. Which then tells you about what's in front of you. It is very sad what happened to the Jews back then. :(

karen m.

Yelp
This is a modern, interactive experience and far different than many Holocaust museums. There's plenty of well preserved and documented artifacts: family correspondence, a frayed yellow Star of David, Sabbath candle sticks & traditional accoutrements...........but it's so much more. The space is vast yet minimalist. Housed in an ultra modern building with a dark, cold, vibe, it forced me to spend a good portion of my visit "feeling" what the victims of the Nazi regime must have experienced. There's the "Fallen Leaves" exhibit: a dark, narrow hall of 10,000 steel faces strewn on the floor. Walking on that uneven surface while listening to the clanging steel was moving and profound. In the words of Poldek Pfefferberg, one of many on Schindler's list, " Remember to Never Forget." I won't forget this museum.
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Quita L.

Yelp
Definitely worth the visit and a decent priced entry fee also. 8€ per adult. The first parts of the museum, I found, were the most interesting and I definitely learnt a lot from it. However towards the end of the tour it was a little different, but may interest others.
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Laurent B.

Yelp
Really boring despite a lot of documents and videos, too much psychedelic architecture and concept for me better to do in Berlin
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Sebastian F.

Yelp
The Jewish Museum in Berlin allows you a deep-dive into Jewish history in Germany and especially in Berlin, from the very early ages to recent times. It takes 2-3 hours to complete but if you haven't had it before I bet you'll have a much better understanding of Jewish history, the reason for prosecution throughout the centuries, and the Holocaust in the 1930s. The museum has 3 levels, an interactive learning center, and is located in both an old museum and a new building designed by Daniel Libeskind. The new part includes a Holocaust Tower and an Exile Garden which reminded me of the nearby Holocaust Memorial from Peter Eisenman. Very good for groups and school trips. The museum provides multilingual audio guides which helps following the exhibitions if you're non-German. While I recommend visiting the museum itself if you're in Berlin for a few days I give 2 stars only for the bad customer service. The staff is rude and unfriendly, yells at you if you don't follow the museum's requirements (coat check is mandatory), and is not able to handle the queue in a professional manner. Sadly, that ruins the experience. You can do better!
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Trang N.

Yelp
It's a time in history that humans should not be proud of. It's a time that all should be ashame that took part in the genocide of the Jewish People. This museum honors the victims, by telling the everyday true stories of who they are. They are the mothers, the fathers, the butchers, teachers, neighbors, brothers and sisters, hard working labor workers. They are the people who are no different from us, but yet they were single out to be killed to what is known as the Holocaust. Today what remains are their belongings donated by friends and families to the museum to remind everyone that the victims of the Holocaust were real people like you and I.
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Vanessa H.

Yelp
I love museums that educate you not only with their displays and placards, but also with their format. The Jewish museum is divided into three sections or "Axes" - the Axis of Exile, the Axis of the Holocaust, and the Axis of Continuity. I chose to explore those sections in that order, which was no accident. If you're paying attention, the museum forces you to make that choice, and it has a real impact on how you end up experiencing the museum. The Axis of Exile takes you through the Jewish emigration beginning in the early 30s, and tells the stories of Jews fleeing an increasingly hostile Germany (and Europe). The walls list the destinations of many of these emigres, and also show some of the stories of individual immigrants (refugees) who had to pack up their lives as they saw a darkening on the horizon. The Axis of the Holocaust, as you might imagine, is the most troubling part of this museum, but not for reasons you might think. First, the floors are purposefully slanted, leaving you with a constant sense of unease as you walk the path. Second, the displays in the walls are set behind windows that have been mostly blacked out, except for a circular "viewing section" no more than a foot in diameter. The result? You have to get up close to the windows to be able to view the artifacts, read the stories about the people they belonged to, and see pictures of those people. Forcing you to get up close to the display creates a sense of intimacy between you and what you are viewing - up close, you see people with features, expressions, and individuality. Step two feet back, and you see pictures, not people. It's an unsettling experience, which is what it's meant to be. The Axis of Continuity is laid out more like what you'd expect of a traditional museum, and takes up the bulk of the museum's space -- walls and floors host objects relating to Jewish history in Europe (going back hundreds of years, not just the last century), placards give you names, dates, and descriptions. It's a celebration that stands in stark contrast to the dark, but brief (by comparison) period that the other two Axes cover. It's a fitting tribute to a people that deserve to be recognized as more than the Nazis' scapegoat.
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Teija G.

Yelp
Great great visit...highly recommend. The design of the 2 buildings and the ideas behind are simply amazing. Very modern and thought-provoking. I love the "voids", it gave the time and space to feel and reflect. The zigzag way very manageable, there were signs at the right places and the exhibition was very logically organized. Your tour will start from the WW2 section at the basement of the new building, and a through look on the Jewish history from pre-war to the present as you climb up. I learned not only WW2 history but also Jewish history in general which I had no idea about previously. Very interesting and informative, and there are a lot of interactive things to engage you, so you won't just stand there reading. If you are a student it's only €3 with student ID to get in and another €3 for an audio guide. It takes about 4 hours if you want the fullest experience, I regret I didn't plan more time so I had to skip a lot.
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Liron T.

Yelp
I am an Israeli Jew living in Germany, this is the story of my family, my family's family, and all those who came before. The story of the Jews of Ashkenaz (Europe) before the second world war is a story many choose to avoid telling - a story I was never told in school, a story which I was left to my own devices to find out. I cannot write a review about the Jewish Museum in Berlin without telling a little of my family's history in the region, to explain the context of my point of view. My grandmother's family had been in Poland for generations and generations, during the 2nd world war, the Nazis sent her family to Warsaw ghetto, and eventually to Auschwitz, where the grand majority of the family was killed. My grandmother and her sister survived, and came to Israel. When her family died, so did her family history. With no one to tell the story of these people, and my grandmother's inability (or unwillingness) to speak about life before the war, and thousnds upon thousands of survivors reluctant to speak, the story of Jews in the region became merely a whisper. The Jewish museum in Berlin was difficult for me to get myself to visit. The amount I learned was enough for a lifetime. I found the exhibits to be informative and interesting, but beyond that - I found that the creators of the museum exhibits put in a great amount of effort to bring out the humanity and detail which was part of the Ashkenazi Jewish life both before and during the Holocaust. Some parts of the exhibits made me want to laugh, in appreciation of the irony which was the center of Ashkenazi jewish humor. Some parts of my wanted to burst out in tears of frustration and sadness. In the hours that I spent at the museum, I couldn't have believed that so many emotions - happiness, excitement, sadness, agression, could surface in such a small timeframe and in such a small space. It's hard for me to say I recommend the museum, in such words, becuase I don't know what it is that I would be recommending. My personal experience is just that - a personal one, and the museum will naturally have a different significance for us all. With that in mind, one would want to visit the museum for many reasons. Historical purposes, educational purposes, the stunning architechture which plays extremely well with the exhibitions and theme of the museum itself. My recommendation is thus: visit the museum to find out it's significance for you, and keep your mind open to learn what it has to teach.
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Matt B.

Yelp
I found Berlin's Jewish Museum a bit of a triumph of style over substance which left me a little cold. They were fairly aggressive in making everyone check in their bags and coats which was annoying as there was no space for them in the cloakrooms as a result, The exhibition started in the basement as you then have the option of following three Axis - Exile, Holocaust and the continuity of Jewish life. The individual stories of the victims of the Holocaust were hard to read as there was only a small window on each exhibit. I thought that the best part of the museum was robot which was writing the Torah. The exhibit with thousands of faces punched into metal was a great idea and would be incredibly thought provoking if people were not picking them up and taking selfies with them. Overall, I was a little disappointed, there are far better Jewish Museums around Europe than this.

Miss F.

Yelp
It was honestly too expensive for what it was. half of the exhibition was closed off, and the items displayed and art was very basic and minimal The garden in the back was nicely done with the trees and the overhang tunnel.
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Jon P.

Yelp
I visited the Jüdisches Museum mainly for the materials relating to the war and the holocaust - grim subject matter, but it is important to research, to understand and to know how these things affected people. On this, the museum did not disapoint - it was extremely moving. The museum itself is a work of art, even from the outside. It's such a unique piece of architecture that you should take the time to study it in detail. Once you're inside, the layout of the first floor is deliberately confusing. This is an artistic decision - one which I'm sure you can decipher. The pathways weave all over the place and there appears to be no specific direction to take. I really liked this aspect as it definitely added to the feel they were going for. The story of the people affected by the holocaust is shown here and it is extremely touching. My favourite part of the whole museum was a specific art piece (unfortunately I do not know the name of it). It was a long room and on the floor were hundreds and hundreds of carved, metal, faces, which you are encouraged to step on. I could have spent hours walking around this room and contemplating its message. Very moving. Another highlight was a room you enter which is entirely pitch black, save for a tiny, tiny, strip of light way up in the corner. You feel extremely claustrophobic and trapped, yet with a hint of brightness. It is an extremely effective piece. On the other floors you learn more about Jewish history and ways of life which to me, as an Atheist, was extremely informative. Since history and religion are so closely tied, I don't think your particular relgious ideas really matter - it's always interesting to learn about different people and cultures. The museum is very interactive - my favourite example of this was the tree where you can add your wishes. You write down your wish on a piece of paper, shaped like fruit and add it to the branches of the tree. Overall it was highly informative and I would recommend it to anybody who loves to learn not only about the holocaust, but about people and culture.
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Josiah A.

Yelp
My boyfriend is Jewish, so this museum was a must-see on our trip to Berlin. Expecting a hard-to-handle, depressing account of Jewish suffering in Germany, I was pleased to see the optimism purported throughout the exhibitions despite the dark nature of Germany's history. The museum features aspects of Jewish history outside of the holocaust, which helped me to better understand the cultural identity of the Jewish tradition. I loved this museum, but even more so, I loved seeing my boyfriend find such a high reverence towards Germany for having it built. This museum is sobering, yet encourage. Very tasteful, yet haunting.
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Charlene L.

Yelp
This is a really cool museum! In addition to learning about all the history like a typical museum, this place offers more! First of all, this is a 3 part museum! One section has different floors, where you walk around! From an art gallery, to interactive stations, to even outside sites to display the different aspects of Jewish history! I don't think I've ever wanted to stay at a museum for so long! At first when reading reviews, I was thinking there is no way I will stay than longer than 1.5 hours, like some suggest... but I didn't want to leave at the end of the journey.. I just wanted to go through it again! This place is definitely worth it!
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Sebastian C.

Yelp
What a great place and a must - not only for people interested in Jewish history - but also for people interested in great architecture. We had the chance to have a private guided tour with a very knowledgeable tour guide. and he was focusing on explaining to us what the architect Daniel Libeskind was planning - and I can say was 100 % able to implement. The tour started in the basement where several axis were crossing each other. The axis of emigration crossing the axis of Holocaust crossing the axis of continuity. a great way of showing how fate can choose and change your life. a 'Garden' of emigration lets you experience how a new home feels for people - old people see it hard to navigate, kids run around and play and everybody immediately has the feeling of loneliness and isolation. While this is a darkish outlook, the axis of holocaust ends in a tower - pitch black and dark with distant noise from the street. very challenging. the axis of continuity is ending at a staircase that suddenly opens up in white and light. strong and great and emotional way of experiencing a building! I say - go there.
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Chrystina Z.

Yelp
Modern architecture, but a convoluted path in the new building. Many void spaces. I did like the follow the dot approach. Takes about 2-3 hrs to go thru. Meh.
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Roel D.

Yelp
Really nice building, impressive architecture. Unfortunately only a small part was accessible. The main exhibition was even in the next building. In short what a waste of money and time. Please skip this!
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Qype User (BearBe…)

Yelp
The building is as famous as its architect but this is an engrossing museum. An extensive series of displays chronicles the history of Judaism in Europe. The history of anti-semitism and the historical context of the Holocaust is thoroughly explained. In additions to the exhibits there are also some contemplation areas that are eerily silent - whilst in them the enormity of the crime that was the Holocaust is difficult to comprehend. Sobering but informative.
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Qype User (Rutche…)

Yelp
This is a museum I really wanted to enjoy. It's a part of history that means a great deal to me. I think you can feel a 'but' coming on. There is so much information. And because there was so much of it, the information was scanty. I had little to get my teeth into. I really liked the stands that are dotted around with photos of people who were directly affected by this impossible historical time. These were really helpful to me. I think you'd really need a tour-guide to get the most of things. They would know more about the exhibits, what lies behind them and the 'host's there were taking people round. The hosts are available to everyone to make things more accessible but I like to 'help myself' to exhibitions of all sorts. The focus is on Jewish life and The Holocaust forms part of that, and it is placed in context. However, such a huge moment in time was shared very superficially. I understand that this information is in proper context with the more important contribution that Jews made and the history of anti-semitism. There is a lot to be said for that. The building is amazing, inside and outside!!! The temporary exhibition was about 'Genetic Hygiene', the cleansing of the race by annihilation of the mentally ill, for example(sic). Children in institutions were the first to go. Also the sterilsation of hundreds of thousands of women, for example.
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Qype User (AckN…)

Yelp
Unlike many people who have reviewed this ( as far as I can tell ) I am not Jewish. Not even a little bit. Very much Irish catholic. However I've always been interested in Jewish history and understanding the faith, much to the annoyance of my Jewish friends. This museum was in fact one of the main reasons I chose to visit Berlin, And I was not disappointed. Of course the architecture is fascinating, but the museum itself is completely engrossing. Never have I spent so long in a museum without loosing interest, I only left because I'd become hungry. Perhaps because I'm not Jewish I found the information offered more of interest. I felt it had the right balance of information to art.
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Haeseon Y.

Yelp
The garden of exile was memorable. It is smaller than the jewish memorial but the tilted floor is something that needs to be experienced. Also the stories of real people during the difficult times were well kept. The interview of the general German after the regime and the indictment process of war criminal also enlightened me of something that I was not thinking about. Very educational.
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Léa S.

Yelp
This museum will take your breathe away. As much for the architecture than its content itself. Notice the holocaust room (? don't remember the name exactly) It's the giant room with only a slight opening for daylight at the top. So heavy that I almost cried. The museum contains a lot if information about Judaism in general, and I liked it. Just go !

Anonymous A.

Yelp
Don't waste your valuable time & money! Extremely overpriced! A series of big blank white walls with little windows, with little to read inside. Very minimalistic "museum" (not worthy of the title museum, if you ask me) with some artsy fartsy impressionism. What happened to the Jewish people needs to be remembered, but this place does not do it justice. We honestly could not believe how much of nothing there was to see. 8 euro per person is better spent anywhere else. Side note: The bathroom smelled worse than a vault toilet!
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Qype User (Bharat…)

Yelp
The building is amazing - with a lot to see inside. A truly marvelous museum, has the right air and feeling to it, but more importantly, has a great collection to the history of Judaism An extensive series of displays chronicles the history of Judaism in Europe. The history of anti-semitism and the historical context of the Holocaust are thoroughly explained. It is very educational for all ages and is a good resource of information

Phyllis T.

Yelp
This is museum that encourages and expects deep reflection. The exhibits are not about pictures on a wall. Instead, it is experiential and draws you in completely differently than any other Holocaust or Jewish Museum I have ever seen. It is beautiful and unique; not to be overlooked. You must go to this museum with a desire to interact with the history, not just learn about it. I was moved and challenged. Just a beautiful experience.

David S.

Yelp
So glad I came here. It is artfully and respectfully done. The documentation is well done. One of my best museum experiences ever.
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Cathryn L.

Yelp
A very exhausting 3 1/2 hours, but extremely informative. I have a much better understanding of Jewish history, the holocaust, and even the power of architecture. I only lasted 15 seconds in the Holocaust Tower...very heavy and dark, but with a sliver of hope.
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Andreas L.

Yelp
Very impressive in many ways, from architecture to the exhibition itself. Definitely worth a visit and we will be back for another visit some time soon.
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Niels B.

Yelp
The museum is one of the most boring ones I've ever seen, and I've been to quite a few in my life. I've bin to a Jewish museum in Amsterdam, and that one was fantastic. But this in Berlin museum is ridiculously boring. 90% of the museum is completely empty or not relevant to the subject. The architecture of the building is spectacular, but thats about it. And there's another problem with the museum. The museum guards are a bit racist. The elderly woman and men have to drop their purses, handbags and backpacks at the wardrobe. Although this should apply to anyone, woman of a younger age, and maybe slightly 'exposable' clothed, don't have to drop anything at the wardrobe. This is a little bit offending and hypocrite. But still, if you're looking for a museum that tells and describes every detail of a regular day in the life of a Jew, you should definitely visit it. But if you're looking for a museum that describes the holocaust and the consequences for the Jewish community, you really have to consider if you're willing to spend €8, because it's extremely boring otherwise. My conclusion; I advice strongly not to visit it, it's a huge waste of time and money.
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Jodie W.

Yelp
Amazing. I completely lost myself in here for almost 6 hours. You can walk around at your own pace with or without an accompanying tour guide (the headphones things). The museum is incredibly interesting to Jewish and non-Jewish alike. It's not just the history of Jews in the war but a thorough look into Jewish history, events, traditions and yes persecution. There are areas for children, interactive areas, both inside and outside. Take a drink and wear comfy shoes, if you plan to immerse yourself completely in this museum it can be a long trek......... But it's well worth it.
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Georg H.

Yelp
Um es kurz zu machen: Eines der besten Museen, die ich je besucht habe. Da stimmte einfach alles: das Gebäude, die Ausstellung. Alles passt wunderbar zueinander, es wird nie langweilig oder banal. Das Gebäude selbst ist ein Beweis dafür, dass man auch moderne Archiktektur spannend machen kann. Die Ausstellung zeigt die Geschichte der Juden in Deutschland von der Vergangenheit bis zur Gegenwart und nimmt am Ende sogar aktuelle Fragen auf. Die Ausstellungsstücke sind gut ausgewählt und erläutert. Was ich sehr gut finde: der Holocaust steht nicht im Zentrum der Ausstellung, sondern der Beitrag der Juden zur deutschen Kultur und das Leben in Deutschland.
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Qype User (deadby…)

Yelp
The jewish museum in Berlin lays underground. Up top is a artistic which consits of several tumb tones (so far as my interpretation goes). Down below you can find various informations about jewish holocaust victims and furthermore a database to check whether one of your relatives died as a holocaust victim.
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Jakeb S.

Yelp
Walk into museum and say hello to the greeter, and she just stares at me. Go to desk to buy tickets, wait in line, then when my turn the male behind the counter said he wasn't doing tickets anymore with a pushing gesture with his hand and went off and started counting money? So had to wait for a lady, whom of which we asked what the museum pass entitles, she handed us a crumpled up piece of paper with 200+ museums on and said 'next' to the next person in the line. We asked her to please explain more because on the board it said the pass includes 3 museums and she was just getting really aggressive. Then we finally get to go in and we are told we aren't allowed to take our jackets in, all I had under was a tshirt and it was cold inside, 6 degrees outside and I'm from Australia. I was fed up so decided to leave and get a refund, but not without more attitude from the man at the counter, who continued to roll his eyes at me after I told him my reasons. Had a pleasant day looking at other Berlin museums. Will give this museum another shot tomorrow, hopefully staff wake up on right side of the bed.

Ross B.

Yelp
It ought to be called "The Daniel Liebeskind Hall of illusions" a thoroughly egotistical piece of work. I am sure that the architect can defend the triumph of style over substance with the argument that his purpose is to cause you a measure of the discomfort suffered by the victims of Naziism, but forcing museum-goers to wander endlessly through a poorly-marked labyrinth detracts from the power of the materials that are displayed--compounded by the silly use of tinted glass that makes parts of the printed commentary unreadable. The moment I spent in the Bebel square reading words of Heinrich Heine on a simple brass plaque that marked the burning of 20,000 books in 1933 hit me harder and brought me closer to tears than four hours suffering confusion in Liebeskind's monumental ego trip. The docents, by the way, are arrogant and essentially useless.
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Martin P.

Yelp
Compelling architecture, much less so the permanent exhibit which is tedious, overly-interactive and endless. They seem to think everyone has 8-9 hours to spend here! Staff friendly but not particularly helpful either.
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Qype User (92sm06…)

Yelp
really interesting building with a lot to see inside. the entance floor is only a very small part of the whole museum but feels much more because it is where the main features of the building are visible. upstairs is a very long exhibition on the history of the jews. take a whole day to see this place, it's huge!

Qype User (MegIa…)

Yelp
this is not the kind of museum i was expecting to visit when I bought my ticket. it doesn't deal with what Jewishes have to fight during Second World War but who they are in general. conclusion, you absolutly don't need to visit it because Wikipedia can probably explain you better who they are. do not lose your time.