On Vacation Guide Book Leipzig | Page 32

7 . T H E M U S E U M O F F I N E A R T S L E I P Z I G MUSEUM DER BILDENDEN KÜNSTE KATHARINENSTRASSE 10 Maximilian Speck von Sternburg was one of the great admirers of art in the 19th century . Marion Bühler - Brockhaus and her husband gathered a significant collection of French 19th century paintings . Harald Falckenberg of Hamburg is one of the best - known collectors of the present age . Together , they – and many others – align with a tradition that dates more than 150 years back : in 1848 , the Museum der bildenden Künste Leipzig was founded by merchants , publishers , traders and bankers of the city . From that point in time onwards , numerous collectors have followed in their footsteps , contributing to the museum through bestowments and foundations . Their passion for art and their individual focal points are still perceivable in tours around the collection . Designed by Berlin architects Hufnagel / Pütz / Rafaelian , the 36 - meter high glass cube peeks out of the surrounding structures . Courtyards and terraces surround the museum complex and blend into the city through adoption of the architectural style of the Leipzig passages . The generosity of space inside is uniquely defined through its play with different visual axes and an outlook onto the urban landscape . The material fusion of glass , concrete , limestone and oak mark the interior , endowing it with a vibrant appeal . The presentation of contemporary artworks and installations that are integrated into the design of our corridors , terraces , and courtyards demonstrate a skilful meeting of art and architecture . The Museum of Fine Arts Leipzig has a reference library with free access for everyone . Staff is always available to assist you with the use of our resources . If you wish to conduct extensive research in our library , please give us a call beforehand .