Ansbach
Kaspar-Hauser-Platz 1, 91522 Ansbach, Deutschland
Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach | Opening Hours & Admission Prices
In the heart of the historic old town, at Kaspar-Hauser-Platz 1, lies the Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach – a city museum that tells the history of the Franconian residence city in a lively yet compact manner. Visitors can discover the world's largest collection related to the mystery of Kaspar Hauser, immerse themselves in the time of the margraves and court culture, see faience from regional production, and experience city and natural history with direct local reference. A special highlight is a walkable piece of the late medieval city wall, which crowns the tour with an atmospheric glimpse into the past. The collections are housed in a developed building complex from the 14th to 18th centuries – an urban ensemble that makes the museum visit itself a journey through several epochs. Thanks to its central location, moderate admission prices, and recurring special exhibitions, the museum is a worthwhile destination for families, culture enthusiasts, and school classes alike. Reviews often highlight the friendly reception; at the same time, it is advisable to plan enough time for the richly stocked exhibitions, as the variety of topics is vast.
Opening Hours and Admission Prices at a Glance
Those planning their visit will find clear, visitor-friendly time slots at the Markgrafenmuseum. During the summer season from May to September, the museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In the winter season from October to April, the opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; it is closed on Mondays. Additionally, the city of Ansbach indicates closure days for certain holidays, especially around Christmas and the New Year: For the 2025 season, the museum was closed on December 24 and 25, as well as on December 31 and January 1. Therefore, it is advisable to check the current notices around holidays in advance to account for day-specific deviations. The Markgrafenmuseum positions itself very accessibly in terms of pricing: Admission for adults is €3.50, reduced tickets cost €2.00 (including for 13–17-year-olds, students, trainees, job seekers, holders of the volunteer card, people with disabilities, and participants in the federal volunteer service). For groups of ten or more, as well as with a VGN ticket or in combination with a visit to the Ansbach Residence, admission is reduced to €2.50. Families benefit from a family ticket for €7.50 (maximum two adults and accompanying children and teenagers up to 17 years). Particularly attractive: Children up to 12 years, school classes, groups from kindergartens, members of the Historical Association for Middle Franconia and the Art Association, visitors within city tours, and press have free admission. Guided tours for groups can also be arranged – a practical offer for clubs, educational institutions, and cultural trips. The clear, seasonal opening model and differentiated rates make planning transparent, while the family-friendly free quotas emphasize the educational mission of the museum. Thus, a museum visit can be easily combined as part of a day trip to the old town with the residence, court garden, and shopping spree – especially since the distances are short and the museum is centrally located at Kaspar-Hauser-Platz.
Current Special Exhibitions and Program
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the Markgrafenmuseum regularly sets accents with special exhibitions that vividly condense regional cultural history. An example is the exhibition “Beautiful Old Molds,” which will be shown from October 31, 2025, to February 15, 2026. The focus is on historical baking molds and forms – hollow shapes used to create artistic motifs from malleable mass. The display leads from motifs of the “Galant Time” through representations of old professions to exhibits related to Christmas and the joys and sorrows of love. An important reference point is the collection of Elisabeth Mödlhammer, born in Ansbach, whose commitment makes the tradition of the image pastry “Springerli” visible in Franconia. As usual, the regular museum hours apply to special exhibitions from Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (or daily during summer), with the mentioned closure days over Christmas and New Year. Previously, the museum presented the special exhibition “125 Years of Onoldiasaal” (April 19–June 1, 2025), a look at the development of the traditional Ansbach congress and event hall since 1900. Such topics address typical facets of the city’s history and make clear how cultural venues, associations, and civic engagement have shaped the identity of the city. The advantage for visitors: Those who enter the Markgrafenmuseum for the second time will discover new, time-limited perspectives that complement the permanent themes. Families find worthwhile occasions to return during the holidays, just as locals do throughout the year. It is advisable to check the current program in advance, as durations and accompanying offers (such as guided tours for individual exhibitions) may vary. With the mix of permanent displays and temporary projects, the museum remains lively and relevant – both for history enthusiasts and for anyone wanting to learn about Franconian everyday culture and craft traditions up close.
Kaspar-Hauser Department: What Makes the Collection Unique?
A main attraction of the museum is the Kaspar-Hauser department on the ground floor of the main building. According to official museum profiles, the Markgrafenmuseum houses the world's largest collection related to the mysterious foundling of the Biedermeier era, who came to Ansbach in 1831 and died in 1833 under still unexplained circumstances. The presentation illuminates the multifaceted afterlife of the figure Kaspar Hauser – between veneration, skepticism, and scientific classification – and embeds his fate in the historical context of the city. The tour allows visitors to trace the Ansbach connections and make references to places such as the court garden, monument, and grave, which are also addressed in city tours. For many guests, the department offers a concentrated access to the sources, interpretations, and legends surrounding the question of Hauser's origin. That the topic remains relevant is evidenced by its cultural presence in city tours and media. Those planning their visit should allow some extra time for this department, as the texts and objects are content-rich. Guest reports praise the thematic diversity and friendly staff, but in some cases also refer to challenging lighting conditions and the height of some text panels. Such notes can be understood as practical visitor tips: Take enough time for reading, avoid strong backlight situations with shiny surfaces, and use the overview texts to locate details. For groups, a guided tour may be useful to structure the topic didactically. The integration of the Kaspar-Hauser department into the overall profile of the museum is coherent: Here, city history, personal history, and memory culture condense – directly on site, in the city that was Hauser's last station in life. Thus, the department remains a centerpiece of the museum that appeals to both first-time visitors and those familiar with the topic.
Collections on the Margrave Era, Faience, and City History
Beyond the ground floor, the exhibition areas lead into the time of the margraves of Brandenburg-Ansbach, a side branch of the Hohenzollerns that long shaped the city and its surroundings. The presentation focuses on courtly life, representation, and everyday culture – from hunting practices to military aspects to arts and crafts and living culture. Particularly noteworthy is the regional faience production, often referred to as “white gold,” which was famous for finely decorated vessels and services. Such ceramic masterpieces are not only relevant from an art historical perspective but also tell of trade relations, fashion, and taste of the time. The tour connects these courtly themes with the bourgeois city life of the residence city and links to the garrison history, in which the King's Uhlans played a significant role. A unique feature of the museum is a walkable piece of the late medieval city wall: This architectural trace literally makes city history walkable and, together with the collections on prehistory and natural history, provides a long-term perspective on the place. Among the natural history exhibits are fossils from the region that open the view to geological time periods; there are also representations of scholars who worked in Ansbach. The journey through the epochs makes connections visible: how a residence city forms, which networks support it, and how cultural and economic impulses – from faience to courtly hunting – diffuse into everyday life. The coherent placement of the collections in a building ensemble from the 14th to 18th centuries creates a special atmosphere. Those looking for further connections after the visit will find them in the immediate vicinity: The Ansbach Residence, the court garden, and the old town alleys form an urban structure in which the themes addressed in the museum are still architecturally and topographically readable today. Thus, the Markgrafenmuseum becomes a starting point for discovering Ansbach in all its historical depth.
Access and Parking at the Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach
The location at Kaspar-Hauser-Platz 1 makes the Markgrafenmuseum particularly accessible for downtown guests. Those arriving by car will find several official parking options in the immediate vicinity, designated by the city and tourist information. Among the nearest options is the Altstadt/Mühlbach parking garage (address: Am Mühlbach 2). It has 233 parking spaces and offers a clear, favorable tariff structure: each started hour €1.20, daily maximum fee €6.00, plus a night rate of €1.20 between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM – regardless of the parking duration. Another large parking lot within walking distance is the Rezatwiese East/Middle at Residenzstraße 3 with 324 parking spaces. There, fees are payable Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM; parking is free on Sundays and holidays. The tiered pricing starts at €0.80 per started half hour, with €1.60 for the first full hour. For longer stays, the city offers a wide selection of additional parking spaces in several zones and price categories; in total, more than 4,000 parking spaces are available in the city center. Those who want to park as close to the museum as possible weigh between the parking garage (covered, daily cap) and open space (tiered billing). For electric vehicles, the city notes that parking in the Altstadt/Mühlbach parking garage is not free of charge. Thanks to the central location, a museum visit, a walk through the old town, and stops at the residence, court garden, and cafés can be ideally combined. Regardless of the mode of arrival, it is advisable to plan a few minutes of reserve time to pass any waiting groups at the entrance or to choose in advance the special exhibition you want to start with. With the clearly communicated addresses and fees, the journey remains manageable, and spontaneous visits – for example, in changeable weather – are uncomplicated.
Visitor Information: Accessibility, Group Tours, and Tips
The Markgrafenmuseum values accessibility and conveys its content in a historically grown building ensemble. According to tourism and museum information, the main building is accessible; here are the Kaspar-Hauser department on the ground floor and the collections on the margrave era on the upper floors. The annex with prehistory and early history is not fully accessible, so it is advisable to contact the tourist information or the museum in advance for specific requirements. For groups of ten or more, guided tours are offered by arrangement – a format suitable for both school classes and interested associations or travel groups. Given the thematic breadth of the museum, a guided tour is a good way to structure the visit along focal points, such as Kaspar Hauser, faience, or city fortifications. Guest feedback often highlights the friendliness of the staff and the favorable price-performance ratio. Individual reviews point out that in parts of the Kaspar-Hauser department, the lighting is dimmed and some text panels are relatively high – notes that can serve as practical tips: Those using progressive glasses may benefit from short reading breaks; it is also worthwhile to view the exhibits from different angles to avoid reflections. The museum is a good option for cultural-historical discoveries regardless of the weather: The indoor spaces are compact and diverse, and the tour can be flexibly adapted to available time. Families should ideally plan 60 to 90 minutes for the basic layout and more if a special exhibition is to be explored intensively. Those wishing for photographic documentation for private purposes should clarify on-site whether and in which areas photography is allowed. For organizational questions, the contact details of the city are available, and the tourist information can provide further cultural offerings of the residence city if needed. In summary, the Markgrafenmuseum offers a balanced mix of regional identity, illustrative objects, and clear service information – ideal conditions for a successful visit.
Sources:
- Markgrafenmuseum with Kaspar-Hauser Department – Tourism Ansbach
- Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach – Museumsland
- Markgrafenmuseum – Museums in Bavaria
- Beautiful Old Molds – Special Exhibition – City of Ansbach
- Parking in Ansbach – City of Ansbach
- Parking Garage Altstadt / Mühlbach – Tourism Ansbach
- 125 Years of Onoldiasaal – Special Exhibition – City of Ansbach
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Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach | Opening Hours & Admission Prices
In the heart of the historic old town, at Kaspar-Hauser-Platz 1, lies the Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach – a city museum that tells the history of the Franconian residence city in a lively yet compact manner. Visitors can discover the world's largest collection related to the mystery of Kaspar Hauser, immerse themselves in the time of the margraves and court culture, see faience from regional production, and experience city and natural history with direct local reference. A special highlight is a walkable piece of the late medieval city wall, which crowns the tour with an atmospheric glimpse into the past. The collections are housed in a developed building complex from the 14th to 18th centuries – an urban ensemble that makes the museum visit itself a journey through several epochs. Thanks to its central location, moderate admission prices, and recurring special exhibitions, the museum is a worthwhile destination for families, culture enthusiasts, and school classes alike. Reviews often highlight the friendly reception; at the same time, it is advisable to plan enough time for the richly stocked exhibitions, as the variety of topics is vast.
Opening Hours and Admission Prices at a Glance
Those planning their visit will find clear, visitor-friendly time slots at the Markgrafenmuseum. During the summer season from May to September, the museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In the winter season from October to April, the opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; it is closed on Mondays. Additionally, the city of Ansbach indicates closure days for certain holidays, especially around Christmas and the New Year: For the 2025 season, the museum was closed on December 24 and 25, as well as on December 31 and January 1. Therefore, it is advisable to check the current notices around holidays in advance to account for day-specific deviations. The Markgrafenmuseum positions itself very accessibly in terms of pricing: Admission for adults is €3.50, reduced tickets cost €2.00 (including for 13–17-year-olds, students, trainees, job seekers, holders of the volunteer card, people with disabilities, and participants in the federal volunteer service). For groups of ten or more, as well as with a VGN ticket or in combination with a visit to the Ansbach Residence, admission is reduced to €2.50. Families benefit from a family ticket for €7.50 (maximum two adults and accompanying children and teenagers up to 17 years). Particularly attractive: Children up to 12 years, school classes, groups from kindergartens, members of the Historical Association for Middle Franconia and the Art Association, visitors within city tours, and press have free admission. Guided tours for groups can also be arranged – a practical offer for clubs, educational institutions, and cultural trips. The clear, seasonal opening model and differentiated rates make planning transparent, while the family-friendly free quotas emphasize the educational mission of the museum. Thus, a museum visit can be easily combined as part of a day trip to the old town with the residence, court garden, and shopping spree – especially since the distances are short and the museum is centrally located at Kaspar-Hauser-Platz.
Current Special Exhibitions and Program
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the Markgrafenmuseum regularly sets accents with special exhibitions that vividly condense regional cultural history. An example is the exhibition “Beautiful Old Molds,” which will be shown from October 31, 2025, to February 15, 2026. The focus is on historical baking molds and forms – hollow shapes used to create artistic motifs from malleable mass. The display leads from motifs of the “Galant Time” through representations of old professions to exhibits related to Christmas and the joys and sorrows of love. An important reference point is the collection of Elisabeth Mödlhammer, born in Ansbach, whose commitment makes the tradition of the image pastry “Springerli” visible in Franconia. As usual, the regular museum hours apply to special exhibitions from Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (or daily during summer), with the mentioned closure days over Christmas and New Year. Previously, the museum presented the special exhibition “125 Years of Onoldiasaal” (April 19–June 1, 2025), a look at the development of the traditional Ansbach congress and event hall since 1900. Such topics address typical facets of the city’s history and make clear how cultural venues, associations, and civic engagement have shaped the identity of the city. The advantage for visitors: Those who enter the Markgrafenmuseum for the second time will discover new, time-limited perspectives that complement the permanent themes. Families find worthwhile occasions to return during the holidays, just as locals do throughout the year. It is advisable to check the current program in advance, as durations and accompanying offers (such as guided tours for individual exhibitions) may vary. With the mix of permanent displays and temporary projects, the museum remains lively and relevant – both for history enthusiasts and for anyone wanting to learn about Franconian everyday culture and craft traditions up close.
Kaspar-Hauser Department: What Makes the Collection Unique?
A main attraction of the museum is the Kaspar-Hauser department on the ground floor of the main building. According to official museum profiles, the Markgrafenmuseum houses the world's largest collection related to the mysterious foundling of the Biedermeier era, who came to Ansbach in 1831 and died in 1833 under still unexplained circumstances. The presentation illuminates the multifaceted afterlife of the figure Kaspar Hauser – between veneration, skepticism, and scientific classification – and embeds his fate in the historical context of the city. The tour allows visitors to trace the Ansbach connections and make references to places such as the court garden, monument, and grave, which are also addressed in city tours. For many guests, the department offers a concentrated access to the sources, interpretations, and legends surrounding the question of Hauser's origin. That the topic remains relevant is evidenced by its cultural presence in city tours and media. Those planning their visit should allow some extra time for this department, as the texts and objects are content-rich. Guest reports praise the thematic diversity and friendly staff, but in some cases also refer to challenging lighting conditions and the height of some text panels. Such notes can be understood as practical visitor tips: Take enough time for reading, avoid strong backlight situations with shiny surfaces, and use the overview texts to locate details. For groups, a guided tour may be useful to structure the topic didactically. The integration of the Kaspar-Hauser department into the overall profile of the museum is coherent: Here, city history, personal history, and memory culture condense – directly on site, in the city that was Hauser's last station in life. Thus, the department remains a centerpiece of the museum that appeals to both first-time visitors and those familiar with the topic.
Collections on the Margrave Era, Faience, and City History
Beyond the ground floor, the exhibition areas lead into the time of the margraves of Brandenburg-Ansbach, a side branch of the Hohenzollerns that long shaped the city and its surroundings. The presentation focuses on courtly life, representation, and everyday culture – from hunting practices to military aspects to arts and crafts and living culture. Particularly noteworthy is the regional faience production, often referred to as “white gold,” which was famous for finely decorated vessels and services. Such ceramic masterpieces are not only relevant from an art historical perspective but also tell of trade relations, fashion, and taste of the time. The tour connects these courtly themes with the bourgeois city life of the residence city and links to the garrison history, in which the King's Uhlans played a significant role. A unique feature of the museum is a walkable piece of the late medieval city wall: This architectural trace literally makes city history walkable and, together with the collections on prehistory and natural history, provides a long-term perspective on the place. Among the natural history exhibits are fossils from the region that open the view to geological time periods; there are also representations of scholars who worked in Ansbach. The journey through the epochs makes connections visible: how a residence city forms, which networks support it, and how cultural and economic impulses – from faience to courtly hunting – diffuse into everyday life. The coherent placement of the collections in a building ensemble from the 14th to 18th centuries creates a special atmosphere. Those looking for further connections after the visit will find them in the immediate vicinity: The Ansbach Residence, the court garden, and the old town alleys form an urban structure in which the themes addressed in the museum are still architecturally and topographically readable today. Thus, the Markgrafenmuseum becomes a starting point for discovering Ansbach in all its historical depth.
Access and Parking at the Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach
The location at Kaspar-Hauser-Platz 1 makes the Markgrafenmuseum particularly accessible for downtown guests. Those arriving by car will find several official parking options in the immediate vicinity, designated by the city and tourist information. Among the nearest options is the Altstadt/Mühlbach parking garage (address: Am Mühlbach 2). It has 233 parking spaces and offers a clear, favorable tariff structure: each started hour €1.20, daily maximum fee €6.00, plus a night rate of €1.20 between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM – regardless of the parking duration. Another large parking lot within walking distance is the Rezatwiese East/Middle at Residenzstraße 3 with 324 parking spaces. There, fees are payable Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM; parking is free on Sundays and holidays. The tiered pricing starts at €0.80 per started half hour, with €1.60 for the first full hour. For longer stays, the city offers a wide selection of additional parking spaces in several zones and price categories; in total, more than 4,000 parking spaces are available in the city center. Those who want to park as close to the museum as possible weigh between the parking garage (covered, daily cap) and open space (tiered billing). For electric vehicles, the city notes that parking in the Altstadt/Mühlbach parking garage is not free of charge. Thanks to the central location, a museum visit, a walk through the old town, and stops at the residence, court garden, and cafés can be ideally combined. Regardless of the mode of arrival, it is advisable to plan a few minutes of reserve time to pass any waiting groups at the entrance or to choose in advance the special exhibition you want to start with. With the clearly communicated addresses and fees, the journey remains manageable, and spontaneous visits – for example, in changeable weather – are uncomplicated.
Visitor Information: Accessibility, Group Tours, and Tips
The Markgrafenmuseum values accessibility and conveys its content in a historically grown building ensemble. According to tourism and museum information, the main building is accessible; here are the Kaspar-Hauser department on the ground floor and the collections on the margrave era on the upper floors. The annex with prehistory and early history is not fully accessible, so it is advisable to contact the tourist information or the museum in advance for specific requirements. For groups of ten or more, guided tours are offered by arrangement – a format suitable for both school classes and interested associations or travel groups. Given the thematic breadth of the museum, a guided tour is a good way to structure the visit along focal points, such as Kaspar Hauser, faience, or city fortifications. Guest feedback often highlights the friendliness of the staff and the favorable price-performance ratio. Individual reviews point out that in parts of the Kaspar-Hauser department, the lighting is dimmed and some text panels are relatively high – notes that can serve as practical tips: Those using progressive glasses may benefit from short reading breaks; it is also worthwhile to view the exhibits from different angles to avoid reflections. The museum is a good option for cultural-historical discoveries regardless of the weather: The indoor spaces are compact and diverse, and the tour can be flexibly adapted to available time. Families should ideally plan 60 to 90 minutes for the basic layout and more if a special exhibition is to be explored intensively. Those wishing for photographic documentation for private purposes should clarify on-site whether and in which areas photography is allowed. For organizational questions, the contact details of the city are available, and the tourist information can provide further cultural offerings of the residence city if needed. In summary, the Markgrafenmuseum offers a balanced mix of regional identity, illustrative objects, and clear service information – ideal conditions for a successful visit.
Sources:
- Markgrafenmuseum with Kaspar-Hauser Department – Tourism Ansbach
- Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach – Museumsland
- Markgrafenmuseum – Museums in Bavaria
- Beautiful Old Molds – Special Exhibition – City of Ansbach
- Parking in Ansbach – City of Ansbach
- Parking Garage Altstadt / Mühlbach – Tourism Ansbach
- 125 Years of Onoldiasaal – Special Exhibition – City of Ansbach
Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach | Opening Hours & Admission Prices
In the heart of the historic old town, at Kaspar-Hauser-Platz 1, lies the Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach – a city museum that tells the history of the Franconian residence city in a lively yet compact manner. Visitors can discover the world's largest collection related to the mystery of Kaspar Hauser, immerse themselves in the time of the margraves and court culture, see faience from regional production, and experience city and natural history with direct local reference. A special highlight is a walkable piece of the late medieval city wall, which crowns the tour with an atmospheric glimpse into the past. The collections are housed in a developed building complex from the 14th to 18th centuries – an urban ensemble that makes the museum visit itself a journey through several epochs. Thanks to its central location, moderate admission prices, and recurring special exhibitions, the museum is a worthwhile destination for families, culture enthusiasts, and school classes alike. Reviews often highlight the friendly reception; at the same time, it is advisable to plan enough time for the richly stocked exhibitions, as the variety of topics is vast.
Opening Hours and Admission Prices at a Glance
Those planning their visit will find clear, visitor-friendly time slots at the Markgrafenmuseum. During the summer season from May to September, the museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In the winter season from October to April, the opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; it is closed on Mondays. Additionally, the city of Ansbach indicates closure days for certain holidays, especially around Christmas and the New Year: For the 2025 season, the museum was closed on December 24 and 25, as well as on December 31 and January 1. Therefore, it is advisable to check the current notices around holidays in advance to account for day-specific deviations. The Markgrafenmuseum positions itself very accessibly in terms of pricing: Admission for adults is €3.50, reduced tickets cost €2.00 (including for 13–17-year-olds, students, trainees, job seekers, holders of the volunteer card, people with disabilities, and participants in the federal volunteer service). For groups of ten or more, as well as with a VGN ticket or in combination with a visit to the Ansbach Residence, admission is reduced to €2.50. Families benefit from a family ticket for €7.50 (maximum two adults and accompanying children and teenagers up to 17 years). Particularly attractive: Children up to 12 years, school classes, groups from kindergartens, members of the Historical Association for Middle Franconia and the Art Association, visitors within city tours, and press have free admission. Guided tours for groups can also be arranged – a practical offer for clubs, educational institutions, and cultural trips. The clear, seasonal opening model and differentiated rates make planning transparent, while the family-friendly free quotas emphasize the educational mission of the museum. Thus, a museum visit can be easily combined as part of a day trip to the old town with the residence, court garden, and shopping spree – especially since the distances are short and the museum is centrally located at Kaspar-Hauser-Platz.
Current Special Exhibitions and Program
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the Markgrafenmuseum regularly sets accents with special exhibitions that vividly condense regional cultural history. An example is the exhibition “Beautiful Old Molds,” which will be shown from October 31, 2025, to February 15, 2026. The focus is on historical baking molds and forms – hollow shapes used to create artistic motifs from malleable mass. The display leads from motifs of the “Galant Time” through representations of old professions to exhibits related to Christmas and the joys and sorrows of love. An important reference point is the collection of Elisabeth Mödlhammer, born in Ansbach, whose commitment makes the tradition of the image pastry “Springerli” visible in Franconia. As usual, the regular museum hours apply to special exhibitions from Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (or daily during summer), with the mentioned closure days over Christmas and New Year. Previously, the museum presented the special exhibition “125 Years of Onoldiasaal” (April 19–June 1, 2025), a look at the development of the traditional Ansbach congress and event hall since 1900. Such topics address typical facets of the city’s history and make clear how cultural venues, associations, and civic engagement have shaped the identity of the city. The advantage for visitors: Those who enter the Markgrafenmuseum for the second time will discover new, time-limited perspectives that complement the permanent themes. Families find worthwhile occasions to return during the holidays, just as locals do throughout the year. It is advisable to check the current program in advance, as durations and accompanying offers (such as guided tours for individual exhibitions) may vary. With the mix of permanent displays and temporary projects, the museum remains lively and relevant – both for history enthusiasts and for anyone wanting to learn about Franconian everyday culture and craft traditions up close.
Kaspar-Hauser Department: What Makes the Collection Unique?
A main attraction of the museum is the Kaspar-Hauser department on the ground floor of the main building. According to official museum profiles, the Markgrafenmuseum houses the world's largest collection related to the mysterious foundling of the Biedermeier era, who came to Ansbach in 1831 and died in 1833 under still unexplained circumstances. The presentation illuminates the multifaceted afterlife of the figure Kaspar Hauser – between veneration, skepticism, and scientific classification – and embeds his fate in the historical context of the city. The tour allows visitors to trace the Ansbach connections and make references to places such as the court garden, monument, and grave, which are also addressed in city tours. For many guests, the department offers a concentrated access to the sources, interpretations, and legends surrounding the question of Hauser's origin. That the topic remains relevant is evidenced by its cultural presence in city tours and media. Those planning their visit should allow some extra time for this department, as the texts and objects are content-rich. Guest reports praise the thematic diversity and friendly staff, but in some cases also refer to challenging lighting conditions and the height of some text panels. Such notes can be understood as practical visitor tips: Take enough time for reading, avoid strong backlight situations with shiny surfaces, and use the overview texts to locate details. For groups, a guided tour may be useful to structure the topic didactically. The integration of the Kaspar-Hauser department into the overall profile of the museum is coherent: Here, city history, personal history, and memory culture condense – directly on site, in the city that was Hauser's last station in life. Thus, the department remains a centerpiece of the museum that appeals to both first-time visitors and those familiar with the topic.
Collections on the Margrave Era, Faience, and City History
Beyond the ground floor, the exhibition areas lead into the time of the margraves of Brandenburg-Ansbach, a side branch of the Hohenzollerns that long shaped the city and its surroundings. The presentation focuses on courtly life, representation, and everyday culture – from hunting practices to military aspects to arts and crafts and living culture. Particularly noteworthy is the regional faience production, often referred to as “white gold,” which was famous for finely decorated vessels and services. Such ceramic masterpieces are not only relevant from an art historical perspective but also tell of trade relations, fashion, and taste of the time. The tour connects these courtly themes with the bourgeois city life of the residence city and links to the garrison history, in which the King's Uhlans played a significant role. A unique feature of the museum is a walkable piece of the late medieval city wall: This architectural trace literally makes city history walkable and, together with the collections on prehistory and natural history, provides a long-term perspective on the place. Among the natural history exhibits are fossils from the region that open the view to geological time periods; there are also representations of scholars who worked in Ansbach. The journey through the epochs makes connections visible: how a residence city forms, which networks support it, and how cultural and economic impulses – from faience to courtly hunting – diffuse into everyday life. The coherent placement of the collections in a building ensemble from the 14th to 18th centuries creates a special atmosphere. Those looking for further connections after the visit will find them in the immediate vicinity: The Ansbach Residence, the court garden, and the old town alleys form an urban structure in which the themes addressed in the museum are still architecturally and topographically readable today. Thus, the Markgrafenmuseum becomes a starting point for discovering Ansbach in all its historical depth.
Access and Parking at the Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach
The location at Kaspar-Hauser-Platz 1 makes the Markgrafenmuseum particularly accessible for downtown guests. Those arriving by car will find several official parking options in the immediate vicinity, designated by the city and tourist information. Among the nearest options is the Altstadt/Mühlbach parking garage (address: Am Mühlbach 2). It has 233 parking spaces and offers a clear, favorable tariff structure: each started hour €1.20, daily maximum fee €6.00, plus a night rate of €1.20 between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM – regardless of the parking duration. Another large parking lot within walking distance is the Rezatwiese East/Middle at Residenzstraße 3 with 324 parking spaces. There, fees are payable Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM; parking is free on Sundays and holidays. The tiered pricing starts at €0.80 per started half hour, with €1.60 for the first full hour. For longer stays, the city offers a wide selection of additional parking spaces in several zones and price categories; in total, more than 4,000 parking spaces are available in the city center. Those who want to park as close to the museum as possible weigh between the parking garage (covered, daily cap) and open space (tiered billing). For electric vehicles, the city notes that parking in the Altstadt/Mühlbach parking garage is not free of charge. Thanks to the central location, a museum visit, a walk through the old town, and stops at the residence, court garden, and cafés can be ideally combined. Regardless of the mode of arrival, it is advisable to plan a few minutes of reserve time to pass any waiting groups at the entrance or to choose in advance the special exhibition you want to start with. With the clearly communicated addresses and fees, the journey remains manageable, and spontaneous visits – for example, in changeable weather – are uncomplicated.
Visitor Information: Accessibility, Group Tours, and Tips
The Markgrafenmuseum values accessibility and conveys its content in a historically grown building ensemble. According to tourism and museum information, the main building is accessible; here are the Kaspar-Hauser department on the ground floor and the collections on the margrave era on the upper floors. The annex with prehistory and early history is not fully accessible, so it is advisable to contact the tourist information or the museum in advance for specific requirements. For groups of ten or more, guided tours are offered by arrangement – a format suitable for both school classes and interested associations or travel groups. Given the thematic breadth of the museum, a guided tour is a good way to structure the visit along focal points, such as Kaspar Hauser, faience, or city fortifications. Guest feedback often highlights the friendliness of the staff and the favorable price-performance ratio. Individual reviews point out that in parts of the Kaspar-Hauser department, the lighting is dimmed and some text panels are relatively high – notes that can serve as practical tips: Those using progressive glasses may benefit from short reading breaks; it is also worthwhile to view the exhibits from different angles to avoid reflections. The museum is a good option for cultural-historical discoveries regardless of the weather: The indoor spaces are compact and diverse, and the tour can be flexibly adapted to available time. Families should ideally plan 60 to 90 minutes for the basic layout and more if a special exhibition is to be explored intensively. Those wishing for photographic documentation for private purposes should clarify on-site whether and in which areas photography is allowed. For organizational questions, the contact details of the city are available, and the tourist information can provide further cultural offerings of the residence city if needed. In summary, the Markgrafenmuseum offers a balanced mix of regional identity, illustrative objects, and clear service information – ideal conditions for a successful visit.
Sources:
- Markgrafenmuseum with Kaspar-Hauser Department – Tourism Ansbach
- Markgrafenmuseum Ansbach – Museumsland
- Markgrafenmuseum – Museums in Bavaria
- Beautiful Old Molds – Special Exhibition – City of Ansbach
- Parking in Ansbach – City of Ansbach
- Parking Garage Altstadt / Mühlbach – Tourism Ansbach
- 125 Years of Onoldiasaal – Special Exhibition – City of Ansbach
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Reviews
Cheva Cheva
24. September 2025
A really great museum, with friendly staff and very affordable entrance fees. We were pleasantly surprised by the diversity of the exhibition and the spacious exhibition areas. Unfortunately, we didn't plan enough time to look at everything in detail, so we're looking forward to the next visit.
Patrick Zoeller
28. November 2025
Actually, a really nice museum. The extremely friendly staff was outstanding. The design of the various exhibition rooms seems very well done at first glance. Unfortunately, many texts in the Kaspar Hauser section are placed very high, so you always have to look up. Even I, at 1.93 m, had trouble reading the quite interesting texts (progressive glasses). Unfortunately, the text size was not good for me at least. On top of that, the lighting was uncomfortable and very dark. Of course, the exhibits need to be protected from light, but the lack of light is unfortunately quite unpleasant. Maybe they could borrow some ideas from the Goethe Museum in Weimar. Just because of the poor readability of the texts, I can't rate the museum any better. Without this flaw, it would be a truly fantastic museum and absolutely recommendable. Note: my review only refers to the Kaspar Hauser section.
Johannes
24. March 2025
A lovingly designed regional museum about the history of the city, porcelain production, and Kaspar Hauser. The lighting conditions are structurally challenging and sometimes suboptimally resolved, especially when viewing paintings, you struggle with reflections and glare. There is a nice view from the little tower at the top. Entrance fee is very moderate.
Hebby1
16. September 2023
In the museum, there is a lot to see from almost all historical periods. To my delight, there are also many objects from the Iron Age (Celts) to admire. Having original objects from Kaspar Hauser in front of you was interesting. The view from the tower room is also very nice.
Peter Vogel
25. February 2023
The museum is really very large and diverse! There is a lot to see and discover. The price for adults is €3.50, which is very cheap. Admission is free for students. The exhibitions were presented very creatively, and it was exciting to read the texts and look at the exhibits. Overall, the Markgraf Museum is highly recommended.