Munich’s Westfriedhof U-Bahn Station: An Architectural Marvel Featured in the New York Times
Munich, Germany – The Westfriedhof U-Bahn station, a subterranean spectacle of light and design, has transcended its utilitarian purpose to become an internationally recognized architectural landmark. Opened in 1998, this station, with its unique aesthetic, has even caught the eye of the New York Times, solidifying its status as a must-see location in the Bavarian capital.
A Design That Captivates
Upon entering the Westfriedhof station, commuters and visitors are immediately struck by its dramatic ambiance. The design, a collaboration between the architectural firm Auer and Weber and the renowned light designer Ingo Maurer (1932-2019), transforms a routine commute into an immersive experience. Maurer, also responsible for the design of the Münchner Freiheit U-Bahn station, utilized eleven massive, deeply suspended lamps in vibrant blue, red, and yellow, each measuring 3.80 meters in diameter. These luminaries cast a kaleidoscope of colors across the platform, creating a dynamic and ethereal environment.
Adding to the station’s raw charm are the unadorned, rocky side walls, left as they were carved into the earth. These surfaces are illuminated with a striking blue light, with only a protective net in place to prevent loose stones from falling. This blend of industrial rawness and artistic lighting gives the station a cavernous, almost otherworldly feel. Another distinctive feature is the natural daylight that penetrates the southern end of the platform towards Dantestraße, creating a sense of openness and making the staircases appear to float.
International Acclaim and a New York Times Feature
The station’s innovative design has made it a favorite subject for photographers, from hobbyists to professional advertising agencies. It has been featured on album covers and even a postage stamp. Its international fame soared during the COVID-19 pandemic when the New York Times dispatched photographers to document public spaces. A photograph of the Westfriedhof U-Bahn station by Laetitia Vacon was published in March 2020 as part of the Times’ article “The Great Emptiness.” This iconic image is still available for purchase in the Times’ online shop, starting at 50 dollars.
A Hub of Mobility and a Touch of History
Located at the border between Gern (part of the Neuhausen-Nymphenburg district) and Moosach, the Westfriedhof station is more than just a visual marvel; it’s a crucial transportation hub. It serves as a crossroads for several bus lines, the 20 and 21 tram lines, and the U1 and U7 U-Bahn lines. Passengers flow continuously between the U-Bahn, bus terminal, and tram platform, connecting various parts of the city, from Allach and Pasing to Kieferngarten and Parkstadt Solln. Visitors to the SAP Garden and Olympiapark also utilize this station.
The mobility mix around the station is exceptionally well-thought-out, offering ample covered bicycle parking and a Park & Ride underground garage with over 200 spaces, built over the track tunnel. Barrier-free access to lifts and disabled parking spaces further enhance its accessibility. While the MVG-Rad station is currently undergoing an upgrade, the station’s amenities, including a kiosk and modern, accessible restrooms in the rust-red intermediate level, cater to all commuter needs.
Above Ground: An Idyllic Oasis
Ascending to the surface, one finds themselves at the Westfriedhof itself – a serene cemetery established in 1898 and expanded in 1950/51. This urban idyll features the striking and beautiful mortuary chapel at the main entrance on Baldurstraße, completed in 1902 by architect Hans Grässel, who designed all four of Munich’s major cemeteries. The cemetery is the final resting place for several notable figures, including painter Franz von Lenbach, former Empress Soraya, and TV personality Robert Lembke.
Adjacent to the bus platform, cherry trees blossom, and a charming allotment garden area offers a view of the O2 high-rise building and the Olympic Tower. The local tavern, “Zur Gartenlaube,” a Greek eatery with rustic charm, provides a cozy spot for refreshments. For those seeking further exploration, the unique Borstei housing complex from the 1920s is nearby, as is the picturesque district of Gern.
Past Challenges and Future Prospects
The station has not been without its challenges. In 2014, just 16 years after its opening, a significant issue arose due to an unsealed joint between the ceiling and walls, leading to water infiltration. The subsequent two-year renovation incurred costs in the millions. Furthermore, during the construction of the U-Bahn tunnel beneath the Dantestadion in 1994, a sinkhole appeared on the playing field during a regional league match, caused by shifting material used to fill a former bomb crater. Fortunately, no one was injured in this incident.
Despite these past hurdles, the Westfriedhof U-Bahn station continues to thrive, serving as a testament to innovative design and efficient urban planning. Its blend of artistic flair, practical functionality, and historical context makes it a truly remarkable landmark in Munich.
Source: abendzeitung-muenchen.de
