A historic royal palace in Munich's Old Town
Close to Munich’s picturesque Old Town, look out for the grand sight of the Residenz. This vast complex of historic buildings and courtyards comprises Germany’s largest city palace. It was first built in 1385 for Duke Stephen III, paid for by the township as punishment for a failed rebellion.
Extended over the centuries by each successive ruler, the Residenz today is made up of Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical design styles, among others. It was turned into a public museum after the revolution against King Ludwig III in 1918.
The commanding facçade gives way to over 150 rooms of lavish splendour. Step indoors to experience the grand wealth and expensive tastes of Bavaria’s ancient monarchs. Explore the breathtaking Hall of Antiquities, ornate Ancestral Gallery and glamorous Royal Apartments and feel like you’ve walked back in time.
Save some time to visit the Treasury, a magnificent display of valuable items collected by the Wittelsbach dynasty. Spanning 1,000 years of royalty, the collection is one of the most important of its kind in the world. You’ll see glittering crowns, prayer books of emperors, ceremonial swords and spellbinding jewellery.
On the northern edge of the Residenz, don’t miss the Hofgarten. This elegant park was laid out by King Maximilian I to be the palace’s private garden. Today you can explore tranquil walkways, passing bubbling fountains and abundant flower beds. Look out for the French-style temple at its heart.
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