Maximilianeum, Parliament building in Haidhausen, Munich, Germany
The Maximilianeum stands on the eastern Isar high bank, closing the axis of Maximilianstrasse across the Maximiliansbrücke. Its 150-metre town-side facade is framed at both ends by three-storey open tower arcades, with seven-bay arcaded wings and a five-part central block between them. Gottfried Semper reshaped the originally Neo-Gothic design into a Renaissance appearance with round arches, columns, mosaics and bust-filled niches; tin-cast figures and a Nike crown the attic.
Construction began in 1857 under King Maximilian II and continued after his death, with completion in 1874. The building underwent major reconstruction after World War II to restore and adapt its functionality.
The name comes from King Maximilian II, who founded the Athenaeum in 1852; it was renamed Maximilianeum after him in 1857. Six to eight male students still receive free room and board there each year, and since 1980 a parallel scholarship for women exists. The entrance hall was named after architect Friedrich Bürklein in June 2015.
The building is located at the eastern end of Maximilianstrasse and is accessible by public transport. Check in advance whether guided tours are available, as this is an active parliamentary building with security requirements.
Beyond hosting the parliament, the building also serves as a foundation supporting talented Bavarian students with scholarships. This dual purpose links government operations with investment in young talent.
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