Albrecht Dürer's House is a historic half-timbered building in Nuremberg, Germany, where the renowned Renaissance artist lived and worked from 1509 until his death in 1528. The structure, which survived the extensive bombing of Nuremberg during World War II, serves as a museum dedicated to the life and artistic legacy of Dürer.
The house features five stories, combining a stone ground floor with timber-framed upper levels. Visitors can explore the restored workshop, which contains historical printing presses and tools, as well as living quarters furnished to reflect the domestic environment of a 16th-century Nuremberg household.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Sandstone, Timber, Plaster
- Civilization
- Holy Roman Empire
- Accessibility
- Limited due to historic architecture; elevator access to some floors
- Date(s)
- c. 1420
- Condition
- Restored museum
- Original Function
- Residential and workshop
- Key Figures
- Albrecht Dürer, Agnes Dürer
Construction and Early Ownership
15th centuryThe house was constructed around 1420. Before Dürer purchased the property in 1509, it was owned by several prominent Nuremberg citizens, including the astronomer Bernhard Walther.
The Dürer Residency
1509-1528Albrecht Dürer lived here with his wife, Agnes, and his apprentices. During this period, he produced some of his most significant works, utilizing the house as both a home and a professional studio.
Post-War Restoration
1945-1971The building suffered significant damage during the Allied bombing raids of 1945. Following the war, the city of Nuremberg undertook a meticulous restoration project, and the house reopened as a museum in 1971.
Cultural Significance
The house is a vital site for understanding the life of one of the most influential figures of the Northern Renaissance. It stands as a rare example of a preserved 15th-century burgher house in Nuremberg, providing insight into the daily life and working conditions of a master artist in the early modern period.
Interpretive Notes
Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty
There is ongoing discussion regarding the extent of the original 15th-century interior layout versus the modifications made during the 20th-century restoration process.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
Open Tuesday through Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance. Audio guides are available in multiple languages.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday mornings are generally quieter. The museum is often busier during the Nuremberg Christmas Market season.
Photography
Non-commercial photography is permitted without flash or tripods.
Nearby POIs
13 shownSources & Further Reading
- [1]Albrecht Dürer: A Guide to His Life and Work — Jeffrey Chipps Smith. Oxford University Press (2012)
- [2]
Key Facts
- Materials
- Sandstone, Timber, Plaster
- Civilization
- Holy Roman Empire
- Accessibility
- Limited due to historic architecture; elevator access to some floors