Review: Jewish Museum Berlin

Since the architecture is a main attraction here, what can you tell us about the space?
Incorporating both an 18th-century building and a zigzagging contemporary metal addition by Daniel Libeskind, the Jewish Museum Berlin is as well known for its architecture as for its collection. Visitors enter through the landmark baroque palace and follow a staircase down into the new extension, an underground space of angled walls that's wholly disorienting. There's no clear path to follow: The routes lead to different spaces, including five dramatic concrete-walled "voids." The most famous of these is the Shalekhet (Fallen Leaves) installation by Israeli artist Menashe Kadishman, where visitors walk across a floor piled high with iron faces carved with open mouths, a disturbing exercise done in total silence. Though it’s an immensely popular museum, there’s an understandable hush that falls over the crowds as they walk through these unsettling rooms, contemplating just how much was lost in the Holocaust.

And what will you find amid the permanent collection?
The museum traces the social, political, and cultural history of Jews in Germany through artwork, photographs, religious objects and texts, and other ephemera. There are, of course, many objects related to the persecution of Jews in Nazi Germany, including Yellow Star patches and anti-Semitic signage. Everyday objects and mementos carry significant weight; a simple toy is fraught with meaning when you learn that it was carried in a young girl’s suitcase as she fled to England in 1939 with the aid of Children’s Transport.

Are there any rotating exhibitions of note?
There are occasional non-permanent exhibitions, many of them contemporary sound and light installations. The permanent exhibition, situated on the two upper levels of the Libeskind addition, are currently closed for remodels.

What's the vibe among the patrons?
This is a serious museum meant for quiet contemplation, and museumgoers, of every nationality and age, are respectful.

On the practical tip, how were facilities?
There are a lot of stairs in this museum, but those with disabilities can access all the exhibition spaces. Also note that there's an extensive security check at the entrance, which can take some time if lines are long.

If we're in need of a pit stop, are there any good options here?
There's a cafe, but it's nothing special.

Be real with us: How long should we expect a visit to take?
Devote at least two hours to this museum.