Munich, a city of contrasts, where sleek modern architecture stands alongside centuries-old landmarks. Yet, beneath the bustling veneer of a contemporary metropolis, a vibrant heart of tradition continues to beat. For those who yearn to experience Munich as it once was, to touch the very fabric of its history, a journey through its timeless corners reveals a city deeply connected to its past.
The Hofbräuhaus-Kunstmühle: Where Flour Meets History
Stepping into the Hofbräuhaus-Kunstmühle, nestled close to the iconic Hofbräuhaus on Neuturmstraße, is like entering a time capsule. Here, in Munich’s only active mill, the ancient craft of milling flour continues. Farmers from the region deliver their grain from as early as four in the morning, a ritual that has remained unchanged for generations. The Blum family, with the 22-year-old Valentin now joining the ranks, carries this tradition with unwavering dedication. As Josef Rampl, managing director of the Bavarian Millers’ Association, aptly puts it, “Valentin has flour in his blood.” Even before 1900, a bakery thrived in the mill’s vaulted cellars, a legacy subtly echoed by the remnants of a stone oven. This tradition was rekindled in 2010 with the establishment of the E. Knapp & R. Wenig in-house bakery, offering freshly baked rolls and bread, a taste of Munich’s enduring culinary heritage.
The Residenz: A Glimpse into Royal Grandeur
The Wittelsbach dynasty, architects of Munich’s transformation into a powerful capital, left an indelible mark on the city with their magnificent palaces and gardens. To truly journey back to the era of powerful dukes and kings, a visit to the Munich Residenz is essential. The opulent Antiquarium, adorned with exquisite paintings, the Treasury brimming with sparkling crowns and jewels, and the majestic living quarters with their precious tapestries and furniture, all whisper tales of bygone glory. Special guided tours, such as “From the Old Court to the Castle: The Munich Residenz, its Courtyards and Gardens,” offer deeper insights into this historical treasure, allowing a maximum of 25 participants to explore its grandeur.
Augustiner Klosterwirt: A Taste of Authentic Bavarian Hospitality
In the shadow of the Frauenkirche lies the Augustiner Klosterwirt, a place where Munich’s soul feels truly at home. While its current incarnation dates back to 2013, its location and spirit trace back to the city’s ancient origins. As landlord Gregor Lemke succinctly states, “We are simply a good inn.” Once the site of the Augustinian monks’ monastery, which later gave birth to the renowned Augustiner brewery, the building housed an inn more than a century ago. Its reopening on nearly the same spot has revived a tradition of rustic hospitality and Bavarian culture. Here, guests can savor authentic Bavarian dishes, from hearty liver dumpling soup with fresh parsley (7.50 Euros) to Munich sausage salad with homemade bread (13.50 Euros) and half a roasted pork knuckle with dumplings and coleslaw (22.90 Euros). And, of course, the excellent Augustiner beer from a wooden barrel (4.60 Euros for half a liter) flows freely, completing this quintessential Bavarian experience.
Alter Peter: Breathing in Munich’s Elevated History
For a truly refreshing escape from the daily grind, one can ascend the tower of St. Peter’s Church, affectionately known as “Alter Peter.” As Munich’s oldest parish church, its tower offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, the gaze extends a remarkable 100 kilometers, reaching the majestic Alps. From this vantage point, the sheer scale of Munich’s growth becomes apparent: from a modest 91 hectares in the late 13th century to over 31,000 hectares today. The climb of 306 steps to the observation platform is well worth the effort, and at the level of the bell chamber, visitors can even witness and hear the bells chime through the windows. The tower is open daily from 9 AM to 7:30 PM (last admission 7 PM), with tickets priced at five Euros for adults, three Euros for concessions, and two Euros for students. Children under six enjoy free entry.
Wesely at Rindermarkt: A Legacy of Craftsmanship
“Carvings, Pewter, Wax Art” – these words, seemingly from another era, adorn the shop windows of Sebastian Wesely’s woodcarving business at Rindermarkt 1. This venerable establishment, founded in 1557, stands as one of Munich’s oldest shops and remains a captivating destination. “Nothing has changed here,” proudly declares Cihangir Kaynar, who has managed the shop for the past three years. The sheer variety of items on offer is astounding: woodcarvings, crosses, Madonnas, nativity figures, angels, crucifixes, holy water fonts, and an array of candles and candlesticks. Tourists revel in exploring the meticulously curated collection, while locals frequent the shop for its unique offerings. Wesely is open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6:30 PM, and on Saturdays until 6 PM.
The Old Brunnwerk: A Fountain of History
As water supply remains a topical discussion in Munich, a visit to the old Hofbrunnwerk offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s historical water management. This hydropower-driven pumping station, located in the northern part of the Hofgarten on the Hirschau Terrace, where Munich’s city streams flow, was built in 1562 by Duke Albrecht V to supply the gushing fountains of the Hofgarten. In 1885, the water wheels were replaced by turbines, which are still in operation today. The Brunnwerk is open daily from 10 AM to 2 PM, though it will only be fully operational again from September. Nevertheless, its historical significance makes it a worthwhile visit.
Laughing with Karl Valentin: A Homage to Munich’s Comedic Genius
Ask any Munich resident about the city’s most famous citizen, and many will undoubtedly name Karl Valentin. This comedian and folk singer (1882-1948) famously encapsulated life’s perspective: “Everything has three sides. A positive, a negative, and a comical one!” The recently renovated Valentin-Karlstadt-Musäum, now reopened, offers a delightful journey into the eccentric world of this comedic genius. Here, visitors can marvel at items typical of the comedian, such as the famous nail in the wall where Valentin hung up his carpentry tools when he became a comedian, his fur-trimmed “winter toothpick,” or his hobby horse from “Schwerer Reiter.” The current special exhibition, “Stardust and Seabed,” further enriches the experience. The museum is open daily except Wednesdays from 11 AM to 6 PM, and from 10 AM on Sundays. Admission is 3.99 Euros for adults, free for under-18s, and concessions are available for seniors. Guided tours can be requested via email at [email protected], and reservations for the Turmstüberl can be made at 089/29 37 62.
These seven locations offer more than just historical landmarks; they are living testaments to Munich’s enduring spirit, where the echoes of the past resonate vibrantly in the present.
Source: https://www.tz.de/muenchen/stadt/muenchen-hier-ist-die-stadt-wie-frueher-auf-den-spuren-des-alten-94415387.html
