Beautifully situated in the heart of the picturesque Pfaffenwinkel region, Weilheim in Upper Bavaria offers a delightful blend of cultural and natural experiences. The term “Pfaff” used to refer to clergymen – accordingly, “Pfaffenwinkel” means ‘the corner of the clergy’, referring to a landscape of pastors, priests and monks, and alluding to the high concentration of monasteries that still characterise the area today.
Thanks to its central geographical location, Weilheim developed into the hub of the so-called “Weilheim School of Sculpture”. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the town was regarded as a stronghold of sacred art. The works from this period adorn not only the Baroque churches in the Pfaffenwinkel region, including the famous Wieskirche, but also numerous monasteries such as Bernried, Benediktbeuern, Ettal, Rottenbuch and Wessobrunn. Furthermore, these works of art even found their way as far as Austria and Rome. One of the most significant figures of this era was Georg Petel, who was celebrated as the “German Michelangelo”.
A love of the arts remains very much alive in Weilheim to this day. The town boasts something usually found in larger cities: its own municipal theatre staging high-quality productions – complemented by a diverse and vibrant cultural scene. A particular highlight are the light art festivals: the Weilheim-born light artist Philipp Geist brings together international artists who, every three years, create an impressive overall experience with light installations, projections, exhibitions and films. The next festival will take place in October 2026 and promises once again to deliver magical moments for visitors of all ages.
The town centre of Weilheim is also well worth a visit, with its winding alleyways, distinctive town houses and colourful façades around Marienplatz and Kirchplatz. In the summer months, it transforms into an open-air piazza with a Mediterranean feel.
Weilheim's geographical location also makes it particularly attractive: as an ideal starting point for cycle tours in all directions, the town offers a wide range of opportunities to explore the surrounding area on foot. Against the backdrop of the impressive mountains, the paths lead along the Ammer river or through the region's charming lake landscape. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through the historic old town, relaxing in one of the cafés or exploring the cultural attractions – this charming little town has plenty to offer.
For further information, please visit: www.weilheim-tourismus.de
Train from Munich Central Station: approx. 45 minutes; for more information, visit bahn.de
By car: approx. 1 hour via the A95 towards Garmisch-Partenkirchen
