Wittelsbacherplatz: Information, architecture, history and events

Wittelsbacherplatz at a glance

Wittelsbacherplatz is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Munich and is rarely crowded despite its central location, just a few meters from Odeonsplatz. Why the square is worth a visit:

• The bronze, monumental equestrian statue of Elector Maximilian I in the center of the square makes for a great photo op
• While the south side of the square is open to Brienner Straße, the north, east and west sides are lined with magnificent palaces
• In summer, the Wittelsbacherplatz usually hosts the Hamburg Fish Market. In winter, one of Munich's most unusual Christmas markets, the Medieval Spectacle, is held here.
• Getting there from the central train station is easy with the U-bahn to the Odeonsplatz, and then a walk from there to the spot.

Magnificent palaces at Wittelsbacherplatz

The square shape of Wittelsbacherplatz was created in 1820 during the expansion of Brienner Straße. It is framed on three sides:

• To the east, it is bordered by the former Odeon concert hall - today the seat of the Bavarian Ministry of the Interior.
• To the north is the Palais Ludwig Ferdinand, which has been home to Siemens' corporate headquarters since 1949.
• In the west, the Palais Arco-Zinneberg closes the Wittelsbacherplatz.
• The legendary architect Leo von Klenze also left his mark on the square: He designed the Palais Ludwig Ferdinand and the Palais Leuchtenberg, located at the passage to Odeonsplatz.

The equestrian monument to Maximilan I.

Since its ceremonial unveiling in 1839, the classicist equestrian monument has stood on Wittelsbacherplatz. On a pedestal designed by Klenze, a noble horse is enthroned with Maximilian I on its back. The elector's right hand is raised in a powerful gesture.

The execution and casting of the magnificent statue was carried out in the royal ore foundry in Munich under the direction of the ore foundry inspector Johann Baptist Stiglmaier.