Munich’s heart beats at Marienplatz. It is the central meeting point of tourists, an important subway junction, political forum, an arena for open-air performers, site of wild carnival parties and the Christkindlmarkt Christmas market. Marienplatz was formerly known as Schrannenplatz when Munich was founded in 1158, being the site of a salt- and grain market, feudal wedding celebrations, executions and jousting tournaments.
The carillon on the 85 m high city hall bell tower is a reminder of some of this history. Each morning at 11 a.m. sharp, the crowds gather to watch painted figurines turn to the Schäfflertanz (coopers’ guild dance) or re-enact jousting. Due to its whimsical gothic architecture, the new city hall is often mistaken for a medieval building, but in reality it is less than 150 years old. It has become famous far beyond Munich when Bayern München’s soccer players greet the cheering masses from the balcony after having won a major title.
In the midst of all that buzz of activity stands the 11 m tall Mariensäule (Mary’s Column). Elector Maximilian I. erected it in 1638 to celebrate Munich being spared by the pillaging Swedish army. An almost star-shaped street network connects Munich’s central square to its other main landmarks.
Also located on Marienplatz is Ludwig Beck, dubbed “Kaufhaus der Sinne” (department store of the senses) with its outstanding music CD selection. A few meters on, you find the gourmet stores “Dallmayr” and “Manufactum”. One can indulge in Bavarian lifestyle before embarking on a shopping spree on Germany’s most magnificent and expensive shopping street by stopping at the “Franziskaner” or “Spatenhaus” beer halls. Particularly the latter offers a wonderful view on strolling opera and theater visitors.
Besides haute couture stores such as Jil Sander, Armani and Louis Vuitton, elegant Maximilanstraße is defined by its neogothic style, culminating at its end in the Maximilianeum (1857–1874) constructed by Friedrich Bürklin, today serving as Bavaria’s state parliament building. Those who prefer modern design enjoy grilled fish at Brenner at the open fireplace or fresh pasta on the roof terraces of the 2003 completed Maximilianhöfe.
Less exclusive, but not exactly cheap either is Viktualienmarkt (farmer’s and speciality market). From Marienplatz, after passing the old city hall and Alter Peter, Munich’s oldest church, you find mongers offering local and international delicacies at their open booths. Located in the middle is a cozy beer garden surrounded by sculptures of popular Bavarian artists such as comedian Karl Valentin.
Another trip leads to the newly built Jewish museum or the synagogue on Jacobsplatz. One can either return from there to Marienplatz via Sendlinger Straße and Rindermarkt, or continue to Sendlinger Tor, one of Munich’s historic city gates. A must-see on the way is the lavishly decorated Asamkirche church, a rococo dream in gold and marble.
Name brand fashion stores such as H&M, Zara, and Hirmer compete for customers in the pedestrian zone at Kaufingerstasse. The exhausted shopper finds tranquillity in the Michaelikirche or Frauenkirche churches. Finally, the refreshing giant fountain at Stachus completes both the shopping street and the sightseeing tour in Munich’s heart.
by Karin Nagl
Location: S1 - S8 & U3 / U6 Marienplatz
Highlights: Prinz Myshkin - Great veggie cuisine
Hackenstraße 2, 80331 München
Telephone 089 26 55 96, www.prinzmyshkin.de
daily 11.00 - 00.30 Uhr
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