Marienplatz – Munich : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
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- 7 Jul, 2023
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Marienplatz, the main square in Munich, is the city’s heart and soul. Established in 1157, it has been the commercial, political, and cultural hub of Munich for centuries. This lively square is filled with beautiful architecture, interesting sights, and plenty of opportunities for entertaining activities throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to explore some of Munich’s historic attractions or simply watch the world go by from one of its numerous cafes, Marienplatz is the perfect place to start your journey in the Bavarian capital. In this blog post, we’ll delve into some of the interesting facts and details surrounding Marienplatz, provide some useful information for travelers, and serve up a helpful travel guide to this popular square in Munich.
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Marienplatz – Munich
1. The Marienplatz is the oldest public square in the city of Munich and has been in use since 1158.
2. The Marienplatz is the site of Munich’s first city hall, built in 1469, and is now home to the New Town Hall.
3. The Glockenspiel at the New Town Hall is a popular attraction that takes place every day at 11 am and 12 pm in the Marienplatz.
4. The Marienplatz is the center of Munich’s Christmas markets with stalls selling specialties from Bavarian and other German regions.
5. Every five years a street theatre festival called “Fuerstenfelder” is held in the Marienplatz, which has become a Munich tradition.
6. The Marienplatz is the site of a memorial to the victims of the August 21, 1944 Allied air raid on Munich, which targeted the square.
7. The Marienplatz is home to a farmers’ market every Saturday from 8 am to 3 pm, which was originally established 800 years ago.
History & Information About Marienplatz – Munich
Marienplatz is the main square in Munich, Germany. The square was historically the centre of municipal government and still serves as the main gathering spot for locals in the city.
The square is named after its central statue, the Mariensäule, a Marian column inaugurated in 1638 to celebrate the end of Swedish occupation of the city. It features statues of the Virgin Mary and the Bavarian patron saints, Saint George and Catherine of Alexandria, as well as a bas-relief showing the liberation of Munich from Swedish troops during the Thirty Years’ War.
The square has been the site of much historic action, having been the place where local dukes have held court and where Nazi rallies were held in the 1930s. From the outset, it was also the site of Munich’s famed Oktoberfest.
It is also home to the Neues Rathaus, or new town hall, built in the German Gothic style in the late 1800s. This building is notable for its large, glockenspiel clock, with 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures that recreate famous historical events. The knightly figures on the top level represent the Munich child Elector, Wilhelm V, and his bride Renata of Lorraine.
The square has become a popular shopping destination, where tourists and locals alike can browse souvenir shops, chocolatiers, bakeries, and cafes. It is well-connected with multiple metro and tram lines as well as major bus and S-Bahn lines, making it easy for locals and tourists to get to Marienplatz for a day of sightseeing.
Marienplatz has become an iconic landmark in Munich, and it is visited by over 100,000 tourists every year. It is the center of the city’s government, commerce, and culture.
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Travel Guide For Visiting Marienplatz – Munich
1. Explore Marienplatz – This bustling and lively square should be your first port of call in Munich. It is the central hub of the city and is lined with Bavarian architecture and is home to the town hall, the Glockenspiel, and numerous cafes and stores.
2. Take a Tour – You can join a Marienplatz tour to get an in-depth look at the history of the square and its attractions. You’ll hear about the lifeblood of the city and learn about its cultural monuments.
3. Visit the Glockenspiel – The Glockenspiel is probably one of Marienplatz’s most famous attractions. Take a seat in the square and watch as the intricately crafted figures twirl around and it’s performance song playing.
4. Enjoy Some Traditional Food – Munich is a great place to sample some traditional Bavarian cuisine. Head down to one of the many beer halls at Marienplatz that serve hearty sausages, dumplings, and beer.
5. Take in the Street Performers – Marienplatz is certainly the best spot in the city to take in some street performance. From local musicians playing for donations to street circus acts, you are sure to be entertained.
6. Shop in the Square – There are plenty of stores to explore and purchase that souvenir you always wanted in Marienplatz. Anything from Bavarian souvenirs to souvenir postcards, hats, and toys can be found.
7. Don’t Miss Out on the Christmas Markets – One of the absolute best times to visit Marienplatz is during the Christmas markets. The square is alive with festive cheer as visitors take in the lights, food, and decorations.
8. Listen to a Concert – Marienplatz is home to many traditional and classical concerts throughout the year. If you time it right you may be able to take in a performance from the balcony of a nearby building.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Marienplatz – Munich
Q: What is Marienplatz?
A: Marienplatz is a central square in the city center of Munich, Germany. It is named after the Mariensäule, a Marian column erected in its center in 1638 to celebrate the end of Swedish occupation in the city during the Thirty Years’ War.
Q: What attractions can I find at Marienplatz?
A: In Marienplatz, tourists can find the thriving Viktualienmarkt, St. Peter’s Church, and the famous Glockenspiel, as well as numerous shops, restaurants, and cafés.
Q: When is the best time to visit Marienplatz?
A: Marienplatz is busiest during the summer months, but it is always bustling with activity and crowded with tourists. The best time for a visit is early morning or late evening, when the square is less crowded.
Q: What activities are available at Marienplatz?
A: Around Marienplatz, visitors can go shopping, dining, or take in some of the many cultural attractions like the City Hall and Neo-Gothic New Town Hall, where the Glockenspiel puts on an impressive show in the late afternoon.