Wittelsbacherplatz with its bronze equestrian monument is situated just a few metres away from Odeonsplatz. It is popular for events. In summer it plays host to the Hamburger Fischmarkt (market) and in winter a medieval Christmas market.
It would be hard to imagine Munich without the Wittelsbach dynasty. Its dukes, electors and kings shaped Bavaria for many centuries. In Munich they left behind stately buildings such as the Residence (city palace), the Alter Hof (Old Court) as well as the Schlösser Nymphenburg and Schleißheim (palaces).
Wittelsbacherplatz in the centre of Munich is also surrounded by imposing buildings: on the eastern side of the square stands the Odeon, a former concert hall, which houses the Bayerisches Innenministerium (Bavarian Ministry of the Interior). The Palais Arco-Zinneberg designed by the architect Leo von Klenze is situated on the western side of the square. The management of the Siemens Group resides in the Palais Ludwig Ferdinand to the north of the square. Other distinctive buildings include the Palais Leuchtenberg and the block housing the famous Café Luitpold which was destroyed in the Second World War and rebuilt in simplified form as a palm garden.
Wittelsbacherplatz came into being at the beginning of the 19th century when the Brienner Strasse was modified to become a boulevard. An equestrian monument made of bronze, representing Elector Maximilian I, has stood at its centre since 1820. Artistic and cultural events are often held around the monument – for example, when the sculpture is covered in foil for social purposes or a bookcase and colourful cushions invite you to while away.
The square is famous for two major events: the Hamburg Fish Market in summer and the medieval Christmas market in winter. Market traders always tout their specialities here in May or June: lobscouse and smoked eels. Citizens of Munich and tourists alike love the Hamburg Fish Market in the city because the bread rolls with pickled herring, the prawn cocktail and plaice with potato salad simply taste wonderful. The traders from Hamburg-St. Pauli are also happy to serve you northern-style beer and a witty saying along with it.
You should visit Wittelsbacherplatz at the latest by December to experience the medieval Christmas market where you can mingle with the knights and jugglers while enjoying a glass of mead. Don’t take fright if you meet men with helmets, shields and swords in the midst of the hustle and bustle! Even women dressed as medieval damsels and sporting birds of prey on their arms are nothing unusual. Even the music is unique here: Medieval rock and folk music blasted from old bagpipes and wind instruments are part and parcel of the atmosphere. And if you are still needing to buy Christmas presents, you will be spoilt for choice – there is gold jewellery, lambskins and handmade drinking horns on offer.
