Art in parallel to nature

A day in Hombroich

Öffentliche Skulptur aus Beton
Foto: Heinrich Holtgreve
Foto: Heinrich Holtgreve
Foto: Heinrich Holtgreve
Foto: Heinrich Holtgreve
Foto: Heinrich Holtgreve

A day in Hombroich begins with a step into a quiet, expansive landscape. Between meadows, rows of trees, and gentle watercourses, art, architecture, and nature come together in a subtle dialogue.

Just a short walk from the Langen Foundation, the sprawling grounds of the Raketenstation Hombroich unfold – a place where art and science, past and future meet. Along the paths, past old bunkers, art appears again and again, often merging seamlessly with the surrounding nature. A highlight is the Siza Pavilion: this small, light-filled building by Álvaro Siza opens views across the landscape and hosts changing exhibitions. Around midday, the Café Biemel offers a perfect spot to pause, enjoy a coffee or light meal, and take in the calm surroundings before continuing your walk.

Within easy reach is the Skulpturenhalle by Thomas Schütte, an impressive structure of brick and light, presenting rotating exhibitions of contemporary art.

Nearby lies the Museumsinsel Hombroich, a unique ensemble of pavillons and small buildings scattered among meadows, ponds, and clusters of trees. On its winding paths, artworks from different periods and styles appear unexpectedly, inviting quiet discovery. The cafeteria is open during regular hours, providing a welcome break during your explorations.

As evening falls, Hombroich transforms. When the sun sinks over the ponds and fields, the light softens, the shadows lengthen, and the openness and serenity of this extraordinary place leave a lasting impression.

Foto: Heinrich Holtgreve