The Marta in Herford, East Westphalia, is one of the most exciting and spectacular museum buildings in the world. Designed by star architect Frank Gehry, the building stands in the city like a work of art in its own right and has since developed into a place where questions about the present meet ideas of tomorrow.
The idea was to set an unmistakable example for the region and to construct a building in which art, business and society are brought together. With the Marta, which opened in 2005, the city of Herford has more than succeeded. The breathtaking museum building with its undulating stainless steel roofscape and the tilting and flowing red brick walls ties in with the town's tradition as a centre for the textile and clothing industry. The straight lines and right angles of an integrated factory building of the Ahlers textile factory form exciting contrasts to the almost dance-like choreography of the main building, which is also continued inside the building.
Combining architecture and art
But the building is not the only thing worth seeing. Although still relatively young, the Marta already has a collection of around 400 works of contemporary art of international standing. It is primarily large-format and spatial works, such as Panamarenko's "Papaver" or Reinhard Mucha's "Halver. The Bread of the Early Years", which form a very special connection with the architecture of the building. Parts of the collection are presented in changing, themed exhibitions. These always explore topical issues in art, design and architecture and encourage visitors to engage with these themes and to become involved with new trends.
Marta Herford is always on the move. A feeling that visitors also get during an architectural tour at the latest.
The stylish Marta Café is the perfect place to round off a visit to the museum - and in summer there is also an outdoor terrace overlooking the small River Aa.
Art, architecture and something extra for the home
A stroll through the city should definitely include a visit to the "Alte Markthalle", which opened in 2019. Here you will find numerous market stalls with fresh produce, fine delicacies and selected souvenirs to take home under one roof in a historic setting.
In the Middle Ages, Herford was one of the most important trading towns in Westphalia. Since 2013, it can once again call itself a Hanseatic city.
A visit to the "Old Market Hall", which opened in 2019, is a must during a stroll through the town. Here you will find numerous market stalls with fresh produce, fine delicacies and selected souvenirs to take home under one roof in a historic setting.
The Marta Herford is one of the most important museum buildings in the world. Just the sight of the breathtaking building, designed by star architect Frank Gehry, with its undulating stainless steel roofscape will inspire you.
The museum café "Marta Café" can be hired for events.
Excursion tip: Herford is known for its renowned textile manufacturers. You are sure to find the right clothes at attractive prices at the factory outlet. The "Bruchbude" is the right destination for a tasty treat. From here, you will return home with bags full of tempting broken chocolate.
Gastronomic tip: The Elsbach Restaurant, located diagonally opposite the Marta, serves classic and innovative Westphalian cuisine. The Pfälzer Weinstube can also be a good choice for an evening meal.
Overnight tip: Hotel Vivendi or Hotel zur Fürstabtei.
