The James-Simon-Galerie will open on 12 July 2019 - in the presence of Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel
Press release from 03/26/2019
Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel will officially open the new James-Simon-Galerie on Berlin's Museum Island on 12 July. An action day of the National Museums in Berlin is then planned for 13 July.
Hermann Parzinger, President of the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation, says: "With her commitment to open David Chipperfield's new house, the Federal Chancellor is emphasising the importance of this event. This is a huge step in the further development of this unique museum ensemble into the 21st century. At the same time, we will honour the donor, the great patron James Simon, and his work for the museums and for Berlin. In future, the James-Simon-Galerie will form the gateway to Museum Island and welcome visitors. The building, designed by David Chipperfield Architects, completes the Unesco World Heritage Site."
There will be a ticket and information area, cloakrooms, a shop and a café with a marvellous view, as well as a room for temporary exhibitions and an auditorium. From here, visitors will have direct access to the Pergamon Museum, the Ishtar Gate from Babylon and all other monuments of ancient architecture, as well as the New Museum via the Archaeological Promenade. The building is part of the Museum Island Masterplan, which was adopted in 1999 to preserve the UNESCO World Heritage Site and at the same time transform it into a contemporary museum complex.
On 13 July, the National Museums in Berlin are inviting the general public to get to know the building with a varied programme of events. The day will be rounded off with "An Evening for James Simon", featuring readings and talks that present the patron's work in all its breadth.
Further information will be available shortly on the website of the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin.