ECB opens its Frankfurt premises for Night of the Museums
The European Central Bank will open its Grossmarkthalle premises to the public for Frankfurt's Night of the Museums on April 25, 2026. Visitors can explore contemporary art, site-specific architecture, and learn about the ECB's role.
Art and architecture tours in the Grossmarkthalle
The ECB will offer two distinct guided tours during the Night of the Museums.
Tour 1 focuses on the contemporary art collection within the conference centre, a modern 'house-in-house' structure embedded in the historic Grossmarkthalle.
It highlights Thomas Bayrle's site-specific installation 'Frankfurters'.
Tour 2 explores the architectural history of the Grossmarkthalle and its integration into the ECB's main building, showcasing the contemporary design by Coop Himmelb(l)au.
This tour also features site-specific works by Giuseppe Penone and OKO.
Beyond tours, visitors can explore the ground floor at their own pace, including the ECB Visitor Centre, live music by the staff jazz band, a public talk with Dr Konrad Elsässer, and interactive quizzes on art and the ECB's work.
Public access is limited to the Grossmarkthalle and its associated public areas.
Historic Grossmarkthalle, modern purpose
The ECB's main building integrates the historic Grossmarkthalle, completed in 1928 by architect Martin Elsaesser, with a contemporary high-rise complex by Coop Himmelb(l)au.
Originally a functional trade space, the Grossmarkthalle now hosts the ECB's public activities, including its Visitor Centre and event spaces.
Art is integral to the ECB's environment, with permanent works by artists like Giuseppe Penone and Thomas Bayrle embedded in and around the building.
These site-specific installations engage with themes such as time, growth, and the relationship between individuals and larger systems, providing a unique cultural dimension to the institution's premises.