Munich was ruled for the better part of a millenia by the Wittelsbach dynasty, which was founded in the eleventh century and lasted until 1918, when Germany became a republic. The family was responsible for the construction of many of the royal residences, castles, and palaces throughout Bavaria.
Nymphenburg
This icon of Munich is one of the grandest palaces of Europe, and the main summer residence of the Wittelsbach family since the late 1600s. The palace itself is surrounded by a 200-hectare park with statues, pavilions, and water features, and would take an entire day to fully appreciate.
Commissioned in 1675 and designed by an Italian architect, the palace has undergone some redevelopment since its early years. Over the years, many incoming royals added to the palace and modified for their own purposes, giving the palace and grounds an eclectic feel.
The palace itself is divided into three main pavilions – Central, Northern, and Southern. All of them are decorated in the Baroque style with frescoes, columns, and marble floors. Each pavilion has a signature look and purpose, and many of them house relics of other dynasties which were gifted to the family or imported especially for the palace.
Munich Residenz
Located in the heart of the city, the Munich Residence is one of the most historic buildings in Bavaria. Formerly a seat of government and home of the royal family, this castle dates back to 1385. Despite being largely destroyed by World War II, restoration efforts have returned the palace to its former glory.
With ten courtyards and 130 rooms, all in metropolitan Munich, this palace has blended seamlessly in with the modern development of the capital. One of the most impressive buildings is the Old Residenz Theatre. The decoration and furniture was removed from the old site after the war and restored in a brand new building which has staged a host of local and international performances.
Art lovers are sure to appreciate the collection of paintings and the interior design of the rooms. There are rooms inspired by a number of key periods, including the Renaissance and Baroque, and Neoclassism.
Blutenburg
Blutenburg is not nearly as grand as the other palaces on this list, but its humble appearance barely belies its historical significance. Located on the bank of the river Wurm, this castle is stunning in its simplicity. Built by the Duke of Bavaria for his beloved wife in the 1400s, this castle was only recently uncovered in 1981.
Duke Albrecht III built the castle as a love nest for himself and his secret wife Agnes, and the couple lived there for several years. However, Agnes was tragically murdered by the Duke’s father, and every four years, a festival play is performed in her honour, with the next one set for 2023.
The structure of the castle has been preserved to reflect the style of 15th Century palaces – with a central building and a moat. The castle was a labour of love for Duke Sigismund, who lived there for over a decade after his abdication, He was responsible for the fine furnishing of the gorgeous Gothic chapel, including the detailed frescoes painted by Jan Polack which are still visible today.
Neuschwanstein
Often thought to be the inspiration behind the castle in the Disney classic Sleeping Beauty, this magnificent castle is nestled in the Bavarian alps above the village of Hohenschwangau in Fussen, Southern Bavaria. Built by the famed “Fairytale King” Ludwig II, it was initially proposed to have over 200 rooms, but only 15 were completed.
King Ludwig’s vision was to build a grand castle in the style of old German knights that he could eventually reside in and host his guests. He was also said to have built the castle in honour of legendary composer Richard Wagner.
Over 6,000 people visit the castle during peak periods, and it is considered one of Germany’s most popular attractions. There are plenty of ways to access the castle – from private bus tours to public transport. There’s even an option to get a horse-driven carriage up the hill to the castle gates for the full fairytale experience.
Book a day trip to this magical castle here.
