St. Michael's Church, Munich

The Saint Michael Church in Munich stands as the largest religious building in the Renaissance style located north of the Alps. It is under the management of the Jesuit order and was constructed during the reign of Duke William IV of Bavaria, serving as a focal point for the Counter Reformation movement, a response to Martin Luther's Protestant reforms within the Christian faith.

The church's initial construction took place between 1583 and 1588, with its design attributed to an anonymous architect. Initially, it featured an extensive barrel-vaulted roof and a tower. However, in 1590, the tower collapsed, causing damage to the newly completed choir section. Subsequently, a grand choir and transept were added to the original structure, and the church was consecrated in 1597.

The Saint Michael Church showcases exemplary architectural design. Its façade is characterized by three horizontal cornices, adorned with sculptures depicting the principles of the Counter Reformation. On the ground floor niche, you can find the sculpture of Archangel Michael, crafted by sculptor Hubert Gerhard. The other niches are occupied by stone figures representing Dukes and Kings of Bavaria. Inside, the church features a nave without aisles, creating a spacious and well-lit ambiance. A remarkable Triumphal Arch stands before the choir, with a three-story high altar at its center, adorned with Christoph Schwarz's sculpture of Saint Michael battling the devil.

Additionally, the crypt beneath the church serves as the final resting place for members of the Wittelsbach Royal family who once ruled Bavaria, as well as notable figures like the sculptor Giovanni da Bologna and Eugène de Beauharnais, the son of Napoleon's wife, Josephine.