Monumental Highlights in Munich, Munich, Germany

When I first set foot in Munich, I was fascinated by its stunning mix of history, culture and architecture. From grand royal palaces to charming market squares. In this article, I’ll guide you through the monumental highlights in Munich. I show you the iconic landmarks that define the city’s character.

Munich (München in German) is the capital of Bavaria. Its origins date back to the 12th century, when it was first mentioned in official records in 1158. The name “Munich” is derived from the Old High German term Munichen, meaning “by the monks,” which points to the city’s monastic origins.

Munich’s early history is tied to Duke Henry the Lion. He was a powerful ruler of Saxony and Bavaria. In 1158, Henry established a bridge over the Isar River and a market at the site of a Benedictine monastery. It turned out to be the foundation for the city’s growth. This strategic move also granted Munich the rights to collect customs duties, creating its economic importance.

By 1255, Munich became the residence of the Wittelsbach dynasty. They ruled Bavaria for over 700 years. Under their investment, the city expanded and flourished. The city established itself as a centre for trade, art and culture. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).