Munich’s New Town Hall, or Neues Rathaus, is one of the most famous landmarks in Munich.
Located in the bustling Marienplatz, this stunning building is not just a seat of administration but also a popular tourist attraction. It offers unique architectural features, the famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel, panoramic views of the city, and a few interesting places to visit.
In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about visiting the New Town Hall in Munich, including its history, top attractions, architectural highlights, and insider tips to make the most of your visit. I will also share with you why I was not able to visit the Library (although I really wanted to see it with my family).
Let’s start with a little bit of history.
A Brief History of the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)
The New Town Hall was constructed between 1867 and 1908, a period when Munich’s population was rapidly growing. As the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) became too small to accommodate the city’s needs, a new, more grandiose building was envisioned.
Designed by Georg von Hauberrisser, the New Town Hall was built in a neo-Gothic style that captivates visitors from across the globe. With its ornate facade, towering spires, and detailed statues, the building reflects Munich’s rich history and cultural pride. Today, it houses the Munich City Council and the offices of the Mayor of Munich.
Architectural Highlights of the New Town Hall
The New Town Hall is an architectural marvel that exemplifies neo-Gothic design. With its intricate stone carvings, towering spires, and decorative statues, the building is a visual feast for architecture buffs, but you will also like it and find it spectacular even if you are not an expert.
I admit I liked it from the first moment I saw it online – photos – prior to our trip (when I was creating the itinerary). I know that many town halls do not offer visitors special attractions, but this is not the case in Munich. In fact, as I am sharing below, there are plenty of things to see and do here – so I am telling you now> book some time to visit it thoroughly!
Whether you are an expert or not, here are some key features and details to look out for:
The Facade: The facade of the New Town Hall is adorned with numerous statues of…