Germany's art system reopens: museums may follow on May 11

As the acute phase of the Covid-19 pandemic subsides, Northern Europe is slowly reopening. In Germany, galleries with spaces under 800 square meters have been allowed to reopen first, operating by appointment with mandatory masks. The bigger prize, however, is the reopening of museums. Berlin's 170 museums and others across the country may reopen on May 11, subject to decisions by the Länder. German Culture Minister Monika Grütters stated, 'Culture is not a luxury. Museums can play a pioneering role in the gradual reopening of cultural institutions.' Precautions will include mandatory masks, staggered entry, and enhanced hygiene. The German cultural sector has suffered heavily: 90,000 events cancelled, 1.2 million workers affected, and 256,000 businesses halted. Berlin theaters alone lost €15 million per month of closure. In contrast, Italy's Phase 2 begins May 4 with no mention of museums; Culture Minister Dario Franceschini has promoted a 'Netflix of cultural heritage' digital platform.