Italian Traces in Munich – Part 1
Italian Traces in Munich – Part 1
Munich is often called "the northernmost city of Italy", a well-known nickname that reflects its deep connection to Italian culture. In fact, nearly 30,000 Italian nationals live in Munich, and the number of Aperol Spritz drinks in street cafés rises along with the temperature. Even in the city’s traditional beer gardens, we often see this Italian classic replacing the Münchner Maß on tables! Throughout Munich’s history, waves of enthusiasm for Italian art, culture, and architecture have shaped the city. The most famous example is King Ludwig I of Bavaria, who, together with his court architect Leo von Klenze, designed entire buildings, squares, and streets in the Italian style.
In this two-part blog series, we’ll introduce you to some stunning examples of Italian influences in Munich. Join us on a walk through Munich with a southern European flair!
Tour 1: Noble Palaces, Grand Arcades & a Stunning Italian-Style Church
Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshal's Hall)
The classical loggia at the southern end of Odeonsplatz was built between 1841 and 1844 on the orders of King Ludwig I. Designed by Friedrich von Gärtner, it was intended as a monument to the Bavarian army. If you’ve traveled to Italy, the inspiration behind this impressive structure might be obvious—it was modeled after Florence’s Loggia dei Lanzi. Next time you pass by, you might notice scaffolding around the stairs and façade—the Feldherrnhalle, with its iconic stone lions, is currently undergoing restoration. Work is expected to be completed by 2025.
Königsbau of the Munich Residenz
Another project by King Ludwig I—shortly after taking the throne in 1825, the art-loving king expanded the Munich Residenz. Once again, Leo von Klenze was the architect behind the Königsbau, designing its main façade in the style of Florence’s Palazzo Pitti and Palazzo Rucellai.
Palais Törring-Jettenbach (Residenzpost)
Originally an 18th-century noble palace, this Max-Joseph-Platz landmark was transformed into the Residenzpost in 1838 by King Ludwig I. Its north façade, redesigned by Leo von Klenze, was inspired by Florence’s Ospedale degli Innocenti. Some of you might remember this building as Munich’s main post office, where we once sent our letters. However, the post office closed in 2004, and today the building houses restaurants, offices, clinics, and shops.
Theatinerkirche (Theatine Church)
The Theatine Church, officially St. Kajetan and Adelheid, was modeled after Sant’Andrea della Valle in Rome. Standing proudly at Odeonsplatz, this stunning Italian High Baroque church has a remarkable history. In the 17th century, the young noblewoman Henriette Adelaide of Savoy, wife of Elector Ferdinand Maria, made a vow: If she gave birth to a long-awaited heir, she would build the most magnificent church in Munich. When her son Max II Emanuel was born in 1662, she kept her promise and commissioned the church’s construction. The architects? Barelli, Spinelli, Zuccalli—names that sound just as Italian as a delicious plate of pasta!
The Courtyard of the Alte Münze (Old Mint)
Step into the courtyard of today’s Bavarian State Office for Monument Protection, and you might almost feel like you're in Italy. The three-tiered arcades and loggias were inspired by Italian Renaissance architecture, though they lack the elegance and symmetry of their Italian models. Nonetheless, the Alte Münze courtyard is a hidden gem in Munich’s Old Town! Originally built in the 16th century by Duke Albrecht V as a royal stables building, it also housed his art collection. In 1809, the Mint Office moved in, producing gold coins, pfennig pieces, and even gold medals for the 1972 Olympic Games. Since 1986, the Bavarian State Office for Monument Protection has been based here.
Nymphenburg Palace
Now, let’s leave the Old Town and head to one of Munich’s true jewels! Like the Theatine Church, Nymphenburg Palace owes its existence to the Italian princess Henriette Adelaide of Savoy. The central building of the palace was modeled after Venaria Reale in Piedmont. It was later expanded to reflect French influences, particularly the Versailles style. Nymphenburg is the perfect place for a stately stroll in the footsteps of the Wittelsbach dynasty. Its vast palace gardens offer a beautiful mix of nature and history. Join us on an open tour of Nymphenburg Palace and explore its magnificent park!
This was Part 1 of our Italian Traces in Munich series.
Want more? Check out the detailed article from our friends at Sono Italia – here’s the link to their post! 😊