People-watch, be entertained by street performers and gaze up at Munich’s town hall in this central plaza, one of the city’s main meeting points.
Marienplatz is a lively plaza where crowds, street performers and tour groups gather in the heart of the Munich. The central square is seen as a practical meeting point, as well as a place for sports celebrations and peaceful protests.
Marienplatz is named after the Mariensäule (Mary’s Column), a 17th-century pillar that decorates the square and is dedicated to a saint. The square was the home of Munich’s daily food market before the Viktualienmarkt was relocated to a larger site at the turn of the 19th century.
The central location of Marienplatz makes it an ideal gathering point and many walking tours of the city start from here. Meet friends in the plaza before taking a tour of the city’s attractions. Capture photos of the iconic New Town Hall at the northern end of the square. Munich’s famous carillon, the Glockenspiel, was added to the building in 1908. Sit in the square or at a table at outdoor cafés and watch mechanical dancers perform two to three times a day. The 32 copper figures each represent a different period of Munich’s history. Bells ring out loudly across the city as they dance. Marvel at the gothic revival design of this government building, which was constructed between 1867 and 1909.
There are festive market stalls dotted around the plaza during the Christmas season. The Christmas Market tradition dates back to the 1300s. Take in the jolly atmosphere as you browse the stands for snacks and small gifts. Warm up with a mug of mulled wine and try roasted chestnuts and sugared almonds. Peruse the stalls for works of art, handcrafted wooden items and glass Christmas ornaments.
Catch the U-Bahn (subway) to the Marienplatz station or come on foot from many areas within the city. The plaza is open every day and is free to visit.
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