Pinakothek means “painting gallery,” and the nearly 800 paintings on display in this enormous building represent the greatest European artists of the 14th through 18th centuries. It was opened in 1836, and built specifically to display one of the gems of the royal family’s collection, Peter Paul Rubens’s massive The Last Judgment. (The Wittelsbachs were particularly fond of the Dutch masters, and assembled quite an impressive collection of their work.) The museum is so immense that you can easily spend several days exploring the two floors of exhibits. To make the most of your time here, pick up a museum guide at the information desk, decide which paintings you particularly want to see, and then spend at least 2 to 3 hours. A free audio tour in English is available in the lobby. Important highlights include ten paintings by Albrecht Dürer, including the haunting Self-Portrait with Fur-Trimmed Robe, painted in 1500 when he was 29; it’s the first self-portrait ever painted by an artist. The Italian school is well represented with canvases by Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. The red-walled Rubenssaal displays 17 large-scale canvases by Rubens, with more by the great Dutch painter in an adjoining salon. Rembrandt is also well represented; take a look at his Self-Portrait, painted in 1629 when he was 23. Francois Boucher’s loving portrait of Madame de Pompadour (1756) is a highlight from the French school. Pieter Bruegel the Elder’s Bosch-like Land of Cockaigne (1567) and Harbor Scene with Christ Preaching (1598) are also worth seeking out. Note: Until 2018, various sections of the museum will be closed for renovations. Inquire online for the most up-to-date status of what is open and closed during your visit.