Munich is shaped by extraordinary women. In our questionnaire we would like to introduce a few of them. This time: the jewellery designer Saskia Diez. For one of her oldest collections, she polishes and works stones from the banks of the Isar.
Were you born in Munich or did you move here?
I moved to Munich when I came here to train.
In which district are you at home?
In the Glockenbachviertel, where I work and live. What I especially like about it are the proximity to the Isar, how friendly the area is, and the many craft businesses in the rear courtyards.
What does Munich taste like?
Like pretzels, grilled fish and radishes.
What does Munich sound like?
Like the murmur of the Isar and the murmur of Munich in general. The city isn't loud, but it's not quiet either, there's more of a background noise on the streets.
What does Munich smell like?
Like a river that flows from the Alps and when the wind's in the right direction, it smells like beer brewing.
Munich is the only city where ...
... you can bathe in the river in the middle of the city, and even go naked if you want to.
Which Munich lady should everyone know?
Christine Sattler, the former gynaecologist on the Maistrasse who delivered more babies than anyone in Germany – including mine.
Your favourite Bavarian word?
Bazi – it expresses both Bavarian anger and warmth, which I find typically Bavarian. It's a sort of affectionate insult, and I really like that.
The most attractive building in the city?
The Frauenkirche (Our Lady’s Church). The onion-shaped towers remind me of a Russian church – and of my grandmother who was hugely fascinated by Russia.
The catchiest Munich song?
"Isarmärchen" by the Munich folk singer Bally Prell. The song was written by her father, the Munich composer Ludwig Prell. The songs describes the city as being "as beautiful as a fairy-tale". Recurring themes are, in particular, the Isar, the colours white and blue, and Bavaria.
Isar or Eisbach?
The Isar, because it's better for bathing.
Beer garden or bar?
If the weather's good at the weekend, a beer garden in the afternoon, otherwise I prefer a bar.
Philharmonic orchestra or brass band music?
Brass band music is nice in a beer garden, otherwise I prefer the Philharmonic.
A weekend in the mountains or by the lake?
The lakes of course, because I prefer to be on the water.
The best place in Munich to impress visitors?
The Eisbach Wave at the Haus der Kunst (art museum) – especially when people are still surfing at night or in the winter.
What is the best place in Munich for an after-work beer?
The Hofgarten or the terrace at the Goldene Bar – where you can also get a very good after-work spritzer.
The best place in Munich for a romantic date?
The Isar – a date on the water is always good and you're on your own! The Isar is equally good for thinking, when you want to be alone.
The best place in Munich if you are longing for Italy?
Go shopping at Eataly in the Schrannenhalle and then cook pasta at home.
