Munich Residence, Royal palace in Munich, Germany.
The Munich Residenz is a palace complex of ten courtyards and 130 rooms in central Munich, built over four centuries in Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical styles. Its three main parts are the Königsbau on Max-Joseph-Platz, the Alte Residenz along Residenzstraße and the Festsaalbau facing the Hofgarten. The west facade on Residenzstraße has portals flanked by two lions and a statue of the Virgin Mary in a wall niche.
The site began as the Neuveste, a moated castle started in 1363 and finished in 1385, built as a refuge for the Wittelsbach dukes against Munich's rebellious citizens. Duke William IV moved the princely seat here in the first half of the 16th century, and Albert V added the Antiquarium in 1568–1571. Maximilian I built the west wing with its lion-guarded portals between 1611 and 1619. The palace was badly damaged in World War II and rebuilt, with work continuing today.
The name refers to its function as the dwelling of Bavarian dukes and later kings, while the Treasury today displays golden chalices, jewels, and liturgical vessels from many centuries. Visitors see enamel work, cut crystals, and richly decorated reliquaries that bring the wealth of European courts to life.
The grounds divide into different sections, each with separate entrances and opening times, so visitors should plan several hours. Access is through multiple portals on different street sides, with orientation boards in the inner courtyard pointing the way to the Treasury, museum, and theater.
The Antiquarium, built 1568–1571 by Simon Zwitzel and Jacopo Strada, is the largest Renaissance hall north of the Alps. Its walls carry vaulted frescoes with landscape depictions, and the floor is laid with polished marble in geometric patterns. The upper floor once housed the court library, the core of the later Bavarian State Library.
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