Munich is a city full of culture, history, and stunning architecture. When visiting Munich, you must take a stroll to Marienplatz, which is the central square in the heart of Munich. It is the oldest square, founded in the 12th century, and since then, it has been a hub of activity. There is so much to explore in Marienplatz, and in this blog post, we will take you on a journey to discover all the hidden gems this stunning square has to offer.
The Glockenspiel
Marienplatz is famous for its Glockenspiel, which is located in the New Town Hall building. The Glockenspiel is a massive clock tower with 32 life-size figures. It chimes daily at 11 am, 12 pm, and 5 pm. The figures reenact stories from Munich’s rich history each time it chimes. It’s fascinating to watch and adds an extra touch of tradition to Marienplatz. We recommend getting there a little early to secure a good spot to watch the show.
St. Peter’s Church
St. Peter’s Church is one of the oldest churches in Munich, located right next to Marienplatz. The church’s tower is a hallmark of Munich’s skyline, providing an incredible city view. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the 306 stairs to the top of the tower for a breathtaking view of Munich’s landmarks. Don’t miss the famous painting of “The Last Supper” by Johann Reiter inside the church. It is a must-see for art lovers.
Mariensäule
Mariensäule, or Mary’s Column, is located in the centre of Marienplatz. It’s a tall, impressive monument built to honour the Virgin Mary. The statue of Mary stands at the top of the column, and at the base, there are four smaller statues representing Munich’s patron saints. It’s a beautiful monument that embodies the city’s history and culture.
Viktualienmarkt
At the edge of Marienplatz is Viktualienmarkt, a traditional open-air marketplace. Viktualienmarkt has been around since the early 19th century, and it has a vast selection of flowers, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and other gourmet products. It’s a great place to escape the busy Marienplatz and enjoy local food and unique items.
Beer Gardens
Every trip to Munich is complete with a visit to a beer garden. Luckily, Marienplatz has plenty of options for you to choose from. There’s Augustiner-Keller, one of Munich’s oldest and most famous beer gardens, or Hofbräuhaus, which offers traditional Bavarian food and live music. Whichever beer garden you
Marienplatz Shopping
Marienplatz is also a shopper’s paradise, as it has many stores offering traditional Bavarian clothing and crafts, including Dirndl and Lederhosen. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, you’ll be tempted to take a stroll through the stores lining the plaza, with boutiques and restaurants offering traditional Bavarian cuisine. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Marienplatz. Don’t miss trying some local specialities like
Visiting Marienplatz is a must when exploring Munich. The Glockenspiel, St. Peter’s Church, Mariensäule, Viktualienmarkt, and the shopping are just some of the exciting things this square offers. From the stunning architecture to the rich history and cultural significance, Marienplatz has something for everyone. So the next time you find yourself in Munich, make sure to plan a day at this beautiful, historic square.
