Icon Museum Recklinghausen

The Icon Museum Recklinghausen, known locally as the Ikonen-Museum Recklinghausen, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Recklinghausen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Founded in 1956, this museum is a beacon of religious art and culture, housing the largest collection of icons in Western Europe. A visit to this museum is like stepping into a serene world where art, history, and spirituality converge.

The Birth of the Icon Museum Recklinghausen

The story of the Icon Museum Recklinghausen begins in the mid-1950s when an exhibition titled Icons from Significant Private Collections and Monasteries was held at the Recklinghausen Art Hall. The exhibition, featuring icons from private collections in West Germany, garnered significant interest and enthusiasm. This positive reception sparked the idea of creating a permanent home for these treasured pieces in Recklinghausen.

Thomas Grochowiak, the then-director of the Recklinghausen Art Hall, played a pivotal role in the museum's establishment. He successfully acquired 73 icons from the collections of Heinrich Wendt and Martin Winkler, laying the foundation for what would become the Icon Museum Recklinghausen. On July 21, 1956, the museum was officially opened, marking the beginning of its journey as a custodian of sacred art.

A Historic Building

The museum is housed in the historic Turmschule, a building that holds its own significant past. Constructed between 1795 and 1798, the Turmschule originally served as a boys' school until 1895. Over the years, it transformed into various establishments, including a regional history museum and even the headquarters of the NSDAP during World War II. Post-war, the building became home to the Aurel Bongers publishing house before finally being dedicated to the Icon Museum in 1956. The Turmschule was placed under monument protection in 1983, ensuring its preservation for future generations. After extensive renovations, the museum reopened in June 2012, ready to welcome visitors into its hallowed halls.

An Unparalleled Collection

The Icon Museum Recklinghausen boasts an extensive and diverse collection, making it the most comprehensive icon museum outside the Orthodox world. With over 3,500 icons, embroideries, miniatures, and wood and metal works, the museum offers a rich tapestry of religious art from various cultures. The collection spans several countries, including Russia, Greece, Ethiopia, and the Balkan states, showcasing the universal appeal and significance of iconography.

One of the highlights of the museum is its Coptic collection, which documents the transition from pagan antiquity to early Christianity in Egypt. This collection provides a fascinating glimpse into the artistic evolution in Egypt from the 1st century to the early Middle Ages, reflecting the diversity and richness of Coptic art.

Guided by Passionate Leadership

Since its inception, the Icon Museum Recklinghausen has been guided by dedicated and passionate leaders. Heinz Skrobucha served as the museum's first custodian from 1956 to 1982. In 1983, Eva Haustein-Bartsch took over the role, bringing her expertise and vision to the institution. The museum's current director, Nico Anklam, a distinguished art historian, has been leading the Recklinghausen municipal museums since 2018, ensuring the continued growth and relevance of the Icon Museum.

Fostering a Community of Icon Enthusiasts

Two years after the museum's founding, the EIKON.e.V. Society of Friends of Icon Art was established. This association, created by Thomas Grochowiak, Lothar Mikus, and Heinz Skrobucha, aims to promote the study and appreciation of icon art. Through lectures, exhibitions, and events, EIKON.e.V. brings together individuals passionate about iconography, fostering a vibrant community of art enthusiasts and scholars.

Engaging Exhibitions

The Icon Museum Recklinghausen has hosted a myriad of exhibitions over the years, each offering a unique perspective on iconography. From Bulgarian icons to Russian Easter eggs, the museum's exhibitions have explored various themes and traditions within the world of icons. Notable exhibitions include 1000 Years Orthodox Church in Rus’ 988–1988, Romanian Hinterglas Icons from Transylvania, and The Colors of Heaven: 15 Cretan Icons from a European Private Collection. Each exhibition provides visitors with an opportunity to delve deeper into the history and artistry of icons, making every visit to the museum a new and enriching experience.

A Sanctuary of Art and History

The Icon Museum Recklinghausen is more than just a museum; it is a sanctuary where art, history, and spirituality come together. As you wander through its halls, you are transported to a world where each icon tells a story, each piece of embroidery weaves a narrative, and each miniature captures a moment in time. Whether you are a seasoned art aficionado or a curious traveler, the Icon Museum Recklinghausen offers a profound and memorable experience.

In conclusion, a visit to the Icon Museum Recklinghausen is a journey through centuries of religious art and cultural heritage. It is a place where the past is preserved, the present is celebrated, and the future of iconography is nurtured. So, the next time you find yourself in Recklinghausen, make sure to step into the Icon Museum and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and spiritual depth of its remarkable collection.