Ikonen-Museum Frankfurt
Discover a curated collection of sacred icon paintings from Russia, Greece, and Ethiopia, housed in a minimalist architectural masterpiece.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Free admission day!
Ikonen-Museum Frankfurt
Best Time
Free admission day!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a curated collection of sacred icon paintings from Russia, Greece, and Ethiopia, housed in a minimalist architectural masterpiece.
"A beautiful, rather small museum with a collection of icons originating mainly from Russia, Greece and Ethiopia."
Cash is King! 💰
Bring cash for entry and any purchases, as card payments are not always accepted.
Free Entry Saturdays 🎉
Enjoy free admission on the last Saturday of each month.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ethiopian Icons
Main Exhibition Hall
Discover rare and remarkable Ethiopian icons, offering a unique perspective on religious art.
Russian Icon Collection
Gallery Rooms
Admire a significant collection of Russian icons, showcasing diverse artistic styles and religious narratives.
Oswald Mathias Ungers Design
Museum Interior
Experience the minimalist and thoughtful interior design by renowned architect Oswald Mathias Ungers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry Days
Payment & Staff
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash is King! 💰
Bring cash for entry and any purchases, as card payments are not always accepted.
Free Entry Saturdays 🎉
Enjoy free admission on the last Saturday of each month. 
Riverfront Location 🚶♀️
Combine your visit with a stroll along the Main river for scenic views.
Small but Mighty Collection
Appreciate the curated selection of icons, especially from Ethiopia and Russia.
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash is King! 💰
Bring cash for entry and any purchases, as card payments are not always accepted.
Free Entry Saturdays 🎉
Enjoy free admission on the last Saturday of each month.
Riverfront Location 🚶♀️
Combine your visit with a stroll along the Main river for scenic views.
Small but Mighty Collection
Appreciate the curated selection of icons, especially from Ethiopia and Russia.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Ikonen-Museum Frankfurt for its unique collection of icons, particularly from Ethiopia and Russia, and the thoughtful architectural design by Oswald Mathias Ungers. However, some reviewers note that the collection might not be extensive enough to justify the full ticket price for everyone, and a few have experienced issues with staff rudeness and the lack of card payment options.
"Wonderful small museum specializing in icon paintings. The interior was designed by famous architect Oswald Mathias Ungers (1926-2007). Lovely icon paintings from Russia, Venice, Greece, and Ethiopia, among others."
Nils Paellmann
"The museum itself has a nice collection, although nothing very unique. Coming from an orthodox country I was surprised that Frankfurt had an icons museum and I got curious to pay a visit. Some of the most interesting pieces come from Ethiopia. However, it was disappointing having main pieces missing. At the same time, I don't think that you will find many things that you can't see at a monastery in the Balkans which is fre of charge. The staff was rude, refusing to speak to me in English!! They didn't accept any card, in 2023, and they didn't even accept a 50 or a 20 euro bill. I went there with a free entrance, and only if it's for free or if you spend around 5 euros it is worth visiting with this collection and this staff!"
Vasilis Psarras
"This museum hosts a remarkable collection of greek russian, slavic and ethipioc icons, with some very rare and remarkable subjects.
Not sure if the cost of the tickets is worth of the visit and please in 2023 card payments should be accepted."
Caius Bernardi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ikonen-Museum Frankfurt is easily accessible by public transport. You can take trams or buses to nearby stops like 'Dom/Römer' or 'Alte Oper'. It's also a pleasant walk from the Römerberg area. +1
Parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or consider parking garages like 'Dom/Römer' or 'Opernturm' if driving.
Yes, the museum is centrally located and within walking distance of many popular sites like the Römerberg and the Main river.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official museum website before your visit. Generally, it's open Tuesday through Sunday.
Admission fees apply, but the museum offers free entry on the last Saturday of each month. +1
Some visitors have reported that the museum only accepts cash payments, so it's advisable to bring enough cash with you.
Yes, the museum participates in the 'SaTOURday' initiative, offering free admission on the last Saturday of every month.
Information regarding the Frankfurt Card and its benefits for this museum is best confirmed on the official Frankfurt tourism website or the museum's own site.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The museum specializes in icon paintings from various regions, including Russia, Greece, Venice, and Ethiopia.
While the collection is focused on religious art, the museum's manageable size and the unique visual nature of icons might engage older children.
Given its size, a visit typically takes about 1-2 hours, allowing for a thorough appreciation of the collection.
Information on accessibility should be checked directly with the museum. Many modern museums strive for good accessibility, but it's always best to confirm.
Photography policies can vary. It's usually permitted for personal use without flash, but check for specific signage or ask staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, there are numerous dining options in the surrounding area, especially along the Main river. +1
The museum is located in a vibrant part of Frankfurt with many cafes, bistros, and restaurants offering various cuisines. The Sachsenhausen district is also nearby and known for its traditional apple wine taverns.
📸 📸 Photography
The icons themselves offer unique photographic subjects. The museum's interior, designed by Oswald Mathias Ungers, also provides interesting architectural shots.
Generally, personal photography without flash is allowed, but it's always best to confirm with museum staff or check for posted rules to avoid any issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable, plan your trip for a weekday morning to avoid crowds. Be prepared for the cash-only policy and perhaps bring some snacks and drinks, as there isn't an on-site cafe. The museum's location near the Main river also offers opportunities for outdoor play or a picnic afterward, balancing the indoor cultural experience with outdoor fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Even on regular days, the admission fee is generally reasonable for a specialized museum. Remember to bring cash, as card payments might not be accepted, which can be a common practice in smaller establishments. Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby Main river, which is a free and scenic activity. You can also pack your own lunch or snacks to save on dining costs, as there are many pleasant spots along the riverbanks for a picnic. This allows you to experience a significant cultural attraction without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Iconography
Key elements to look for include the use of specific colors, gestures, and figures, each carrying profound meaning. The museum's collection highlights the enduring power of these images in connecting believers with the divine. Whether you are familiar with icon painting or encountering it for the first time, the museum provides an enriching educational experience.
Regional Styles and Significance
The museum's strength lies in its representation of icons from different geographical and cultural spheres. The Russian icons often feature vibrant colors and intricate details, while Greek icons may exhibit a more classical and serene aesthetic. The Ethiopian collection, in particular, is noted for its unique artistic traditions and spiritual depth, offering a less commonly seen aspect of icon painting.
Architectural Gem: Oswald Mathias Ungers
Ungers' design focuses on creating a harmonious dialogue between architecture and art. The clean lines, geometric forms, and thoughtful use of light guide the visitor's experience, allowing the icons to be the primary focus without distraction. This architectural approach enhances the spiritual and aesthetic appreciation of the collection, making the museum itself a work of art.
A Space for Contemplation
The deliberate simplicity of the museum's architecture encourages visitors to engage deeply with the icons. It's a space designed for quiet reflection, where the historical and spiritual significance of the artworks can be fully absorbed. The design ensures that the visitor's journey through the collection is both visually stimulating and intellectually engaging.
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