That, with this history behind it, would explain why it is but proper that such a great old icon remains a source of pride in such a city as Munich. Amongst famous visiting locations in town hundreds of millions as well as tens of millions, earth’s traveler visited Munich and the great place itself yearly. He is either a culture researcher or perhaps an even more zealous admirer of good cities around everywhere in Europe. Marienplatz has something for him placed at the bottom of the big bag.
Come see Every Corner, which wishes to be able to better your knowledge concerning such exciting traveling guides, valuable tips, and experience which may perhaps lead you into one of the worlds most dramatically beautiful places in the world around. It’s passion for traveling. You will be discovering what you are looking for and insider secrets, combined with ideas for your next journey. Every time you come across a new entry, we are getting you a little closer to the wonder of this earth’s greatest attractions. Let’s explore why Marienplatz is such an outstanding gem lying in the heart of the city of Munich, and it has to be number one on your visit.
A Historical Overview
Marienplatz is more than a city square. It is a living testimony to the great history associated with the city of Munich. The place was established as far back as 1158 and has remained the city center since then. The name “Marienplatz” literally refers to “Mary’s Square,” referring to the Marian column standing tall in the middle of the square, named after the Virgin Mary. Years passed, which saw real historical processes of royal processions and political rallies through the square and thus saw real Munich unfolding from its own back.
Stand at the center of Marienplatz and you are going to be engulfed by beauty in architectural style. On one side of Marienplatz lies Old Town Hall, or Altes Rathaus, and New Town Hall, or Neues Rathaus, both of which have been very popular. These two buildings give an old-world look to the square; however, the buzz of the square gives it a lively contrast with the never-ending activities of modern-day life.
Attractions around Marienplatz which you must see:
Among the grand benefits of Marienplatz is that one can very well view the city from there and go around the beautiful city of Munich. On this wonderful square, Marienplatz keeps at your fingertips several of the city’s important tourist attractions and walkable.
1. Glockenspiel at New Town Hall
Among other very popularly known attractions visible on Marienplatz is Glockenspiel inside the New Town Hall. The mechanical clock on the front façade of the New Town Hall strikes each of the day’s hours of 11 a.m., 12 noon, and 5 p.m. Another more interesting display is shown in figurative representation for two of the historic happenings-marriage of the Duke Wilhelm V in 1568 and Schäfflertanz, held as an opposite celebration for plague. It is one of the beautiful shows by the clock which attracts most people in the world and comes under things to do in Munich.
2. Old Town Hall
Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) is one of the great architectures’ building that flaunts its spire and medieval architecture with New Town Hall. It is currently a toy museum but there is no doubt to the importance it has as an old building. It is the place from where you could get an excellent view of the stunning design of the square and know about the history of Munich.
3. Mariensäule Column
On the top of the central column of Marienplatz, there is a golden statue of Virgin Mary. It appears that column was built in 1638 as the final expression of victory when the city of Munich emerged victorious in winning the victory against occupation from Swedish armies due to the Thirty Years’ War. Apart from that, it also symbolized the victory, in which the icon was spared and the triumph survived. It is only where it has a historical landmark view, so the place is pretty with a view where a tourist can see how beautiful it used to be.
4. Viktualienmarkt
Viktualienmarkt is the city’s food market and can be reached on foot within a few minutes of walking distance from Marienplatz. You will find everything there-from the fresh local produce to the best handmade cheeses and cold cuts. The place even has a beer garden where you can sit out and drink beer just like the people in the place do.
Secrets around Marienplatz:
Wherein Marienplatz is crowded by the usual required sights to visit, yet the place outside the square bears some of the lesser-known beauties that, for some strange reason slipped the tourist’s eye, thus giving you an entirely different viewpoint on how Munich city works.
- Asam Church: Dug down, just a few minutes’ walk away from Marienplatz, one will find Munich’s treasure inside one of its streets, Sendlinger Strasse-asamkirche. Such an 18th-century wonder the Brothers Asam created, actually one of the pearls in the kingdom of baroque art. Evaluations for interiors of this church less visited are probably the most peaceful because not as crowded as other churches are in Munich. The whole interior-from frescoes adorning the richly decorated church and great altars-was the dream of a lover for baroque arts.
- Hofbräuhaus: Under earth by no way of imagination, but something was sure enough at this place inside miles from the Marienplatz. It begins from 1589 as such beer house gives you all example and so remains with absolute things of everything while you leave when your stay experiences and so at all, with lovely delicacies all best beers present in the globe when you attend mid of culture found at Bavaria.
- Five Caves: If you want something a little more off the beaten path, head over to the Five Caves. The underground venue, situated just off of Marienplatz, used to be Roman cellars and today comprises a few small, atmospheric spaces. You can go to this and receive some of the secrets below.
Why visit Marienplatz
If you’re wondering why Marienplatz should be at the top of your list of things to do in Munich, the answer is simple: this square is the heart of the city. It’s where history, culture, and modern life come together to create a unique atmosphere that can’t be found anywhere else in Munich.
You go there to view some of the exquisite architecture, listen to the Glockenspiel, or just take a leisurely stroll and peruse some of the things in your environment; however, it’s always something for everyone in Marienplatz. Just that square embodies the old-world Munich yet still embodies its thrust and dynamism.
It is also a good starting point for your tour of Munich. The square is central, hence easy to walk to other known attractions such as The Englischer Garten, the Residenz Museum, and Nymphenburg Palace. Besides, it is well connected by public transport, thus making it an excellent base in which to explore the city.
Travel Tips to Visit Marienplatz
Some of the visiting tips if you are visiting Marienplatz include the following:
- Planning your Visit: The key event at the square is the Glockenspiel play. Therefore, you must be early to witness the show. However, though it takes place thrice a day, seeing the first show places you strategically well in the search for proper sitting.
- Beyond the Square: While Marienplatz itself is very pretty, much more interesting stuff is to be found outside of the square. Its perimeter is a pedestrianised square, and there house smaller boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants to duck into for a rest and to taste the variety of local flavors.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes. One can get familiar only by walking in the city; however, he/she has to start from Marienplatz. Thus, one requires wearing comfortable shoes in order to walk along the cobblestone streets and glance at other attractions.
- There are activities, fairs, and special seasonal fairs held at Marienplatz. An example would be in the case if Christmas falls. One will easily have the square changed into a winter wonderland due to the amazing Christmas market taking place in that area.
Conclusion
Behind the beautiful square lies the old soul and heart of Munich; today, richly alive and very modern, in the case of Marienplatz. It is where to wander through iconic history but more often to discover things along the way for yourself, such as to find hidden gems among the more famous buildings.
This is a city landmark, so this square cannot be overlooked at any stroll around Munich; it will run into the very heart of the city and further open up other tremendous attractions the city has in store for its visitors.
Let Visit Every Corner guide you through the wonders of Munich and beyond. Here to bring the world’s most beautiful destinations closer to you, all the information and inspiration you might need for your next adventure.
