Munich History

(photo by Elizabean)

The capital of the German state of Bavaria is the third largest city in Germany after Berlin and Hamburg. Found as a village near a bridge on the banks if river Isar, Munich grew into an important commercial city center in 12th century. It is believed that the city was named after a settlement of monks founded nearby - Munichen (Latin Monacum, Monachium). Munich's golden age began in 1255 when the dukedom of Bavaria was split in two parts and the city was chosen for residense of the duke of Upper Bavaria. When Bavaria was reunified again Munich was already the capital of the whole Bavaria (1505). The city grew quickly and became one of the most important urban centers of Continental Europe. In 1806 was founded the new kingdom of Bavaria and its capital became Munich.

(photo by Elizabean)

The rich historic and cultural heritage makes Munich a very popular tourist destination. It is even called "Germany's secret capital". Several important art museums can be found in the city. Here are the Glyptothek and the Staatliche Antikensammlung which have extremely rich collection of Greek and Roman art. The Deutsches Museum and the English Garden are other popular tourist attractions. The town hall of Munich is ornated with a beautiful and old clock tower - the Rathaus-Glockenspiel, - which life-sized moving figures show a performance of the famous "Schäfflertanz". However the most famous attraction is the Oktoberfest, which is held here each year.