The August Macke exhibition brought countless cheers and great praise from critics to the house in 2019. About 33,000 culture fans came to see the works of the native Arnsberg artist in the bright setting of the newly opened building. Expectations were far exceeded. The museum gained international recognition. Following this, the exhibition "Im Westen viel Neues" continued the success story. It reflected the Rhineland-Westphalian expressionism from a new perspective. Until October 2023, the special exhibition "Wunder Wald" allows insights into the economic and cultural history of the forest in the Sauerland.
Inside "Hui," outside "Pfui"? Not at all! With its historic palace from the 17th century, the Landsberger Hof, and the lower new building with three cubical floors, the museum has other qualities to show: "The contrast of old and new is what it's about," is the unanimous opinion of the guests who venture from the vaulted cellar to the panoramic window of the new building. The view at the edge of the slope dispels any doubts immediately: trees, building fronts, and the Ruhr form a wonderful panorama with the monastery bridge and the Sauerland Theater.
Anyone who can finally detach themselves from this perspective and the exhibits of the special exhibition should definitely take a look at the extensive permanent exhibition. It rolls out the regional history of the "Land of 1000 Mountains" from the Paleolithic through the Middle Ages to the present day. A timeline guides through the centuries - from the basement to the roof. Particularly worth seeing is the exhibition area dedicated to the Duchy of Westphalia, which clearly illustrates the cultural-historical significance of monasteries and orders for the identity of what was once the electoral Cologne Sauerland. The historical reproduction of the Wedinghausen monastery bears witness to the power that 17 spiritual centers held between Geseke, Werl, Olpe, and Brilon until the 18th century. The model includes, among other things, the enclosed inner courtyard with cloister, the extensive surrounding area, and a vineyard on which the Arnsberg Premonstratensians grew their grapes.
The Elector's room serves as an anchor point in the museum concept. Here, six oversized portraits of the Cologne electors lean against the wall. Each is associated with an object that tells more about the person. For example, a splendid golden trophy with a horse figure identifies Maximilian Heinrich of Bavaria as the trophy donor. The painting of Gertrud von Plettenberg hints at the founding days of the current museum building. The Cologne elector and archbishop Ernst of Bavaria had the building constructed for his mistress. The exhibition tells of an extraordinary love story. To this day, the designation "Liebesschloss" (Love Palace) has remained for the palace.
Cultural Expert Excursion Tips
Anyone traveling in Arnsberg should not miss a visit to the Wedinghausen monastery after a tour of the old town. After viewing the model in the museum, the impressions on site are even more intense. The monastery forms a trio with the Oelinghausen and Rumbeck monasteries, which is unique due to the concentration of Premonstratensian buildings in Germany.
For nature lovers who need some relaxation after the cultural experience, a trip to the Lörmecketurm in Warstein or to the Möhnesee in the namesake municipality is recommended. The tower offers a wonderful view over the surrounding area from a platform at a height of 35 meters. At Möhnesee, travelers will find numerous paths ideal for hiking, strolling, or cycling.
Sauerland Museum – Museum and Cultural Forum South Westphalia, Arnsberg
