Post by Lynnette Sauer

When approaching this museum (and, from what it seems, all of the Museuminsel museums), the overall impression is that everything is grand. From the architectural appearance of the building itself to the fact that there are reconstructions 60-70 feet tall. There is a huge, beautiful tiled arch — mostly blue tile, with gold and teal accents, and animals: slightly protruding in more textural brick (Ishtar Gate of Babylon). Upon proceeding through the gate, you arrive within a room of anient Roman architecture and sculpture which is my favorite part of the museum — I have never seen life-size Roman columns, and to see these beautiful Corinthian pillars on a two-story, 60 or 70 foot wall is a bit overwhelming. In a good way.

After the room of Roman architecture and sculpture comes the Permanon Altar room: the related frieses are also quite amazing in their grandeur…