The Rathaus-Glockenspiel is certainly one of Munich’s most iconic landmarks. Located in Marienplatz, the coronary heart of the metropolis, this huge mechanical clock is a should-see for anybody visiting Munich.
Of course, we didn’t miss it! I created the Munich itinerary, and this was on day one in the metropolis. It was the FIRST ATTRACTION in Munich we visited. This iconic clock, adorning the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), has captivated guests for over a century with its charming performances and complicated particulars. In this complete information, I’ll discover the fascinating world of the Glockenspiel, from its wealthy historical past to sensible visiting ideas, and why it’s a key a part of Munich’s cultural heritage.
So what’s the Rathaus-Glockenspiel in Munich? +
The History of the Rathaus-Glockenspiel
The Rathaus-Glockenspiel is a big mechanical clock situated in the tower of the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) in Marienplatz, Munich’s central sq.. It was put in in 1908 and has since grow to be certainly one of the metropolis’s most beloved sights.
The Glockenspiel consists of 43 bells and 32 life-sized collectible figurines that re-enact two important historic occasions from Bavarian historical past. The efficiency, which takes place every day, lasts for about 12 to quarter-hour and options music, shifting figures, and a jousting match.
The Glockenspiel isn’t just a vacationer attraction; it’s a logo of Bavarian satisfaction and custom, drawing locals and guests alike.
The New Town Hall, the place the Glockenspiel is situated, was constructed between 1867 and 1908. Designed in a neo-Gothic fashion, the constructing itself is a masterpiece of structure, however the Rathaus-Glockenspiel added a novel appeal to the construction when it was accomplished in 1908. I’ll share extra data about the New Town Hall – Neues Rathaus in Munchen – in a unique article, together with ideas for visiting.
Getting again to the clock, this was designed to commemorate important occasions in Bavarian historical past, and it continues to honor these traditions to this present day.
Historical Events Re-Enacted by the Glockenspiel and How the Rathaus-Glockenspiel Works
The figures of the well-known Munich clock at Marienplatz are organized on two ranges. The high-stage options the jousting knights, whereas the backside stage is reserved for the Cooper’s Dance.
The Wedding of Duke Wilhelm V of Bavaria and Renata of Lorraine (1568):
The high half of the Glockenspiel re-enacts the lavish marriage ceremony celebration of Duke Wilhelm V of Bavaria and Renata of Lorraine, which came about in 1568.
The spotlight of this celebration was a jousting match between knights from Bavaria and Lorraine, which is depicted by two mechanical knights charging at one another.
As the bells play, the knights tilt their lances towards one another in a mock joust, and the dancers twirl beneath.
One of the most enjoyable moments of the efficiency is when the Bavarian knight knocks the opponent from Lorraine off his horse—symbolizing Bavaria’s triumph in the 1568 jousting match.
After the efficiency, a golden rooster situated at the high of the Glockenspiel crows thrice, signaling the finish of the present.
The Schäfflertanz (The Cooper’s Dance):
The backside half of the Glockenspiel options the Schäfflertanz, a dance carried out by the Coopers (barrel makers) in Munich.
This custom dates again to 1517 when the plague ravaged Munich. According to legend, the Coopers danced in the streets to increase the spirits of the folks and encourage them to return to regular life after the epidemic ended.
This dance continues to be carried out in Munich each seven years as a part of a neighborhood custom.
When to See the Rathaus-Glockenspiel in Action
If you’re planning a go to to Munich, timing your journey to see the Rathaus-Glockenspiel in motion is a should. The clock performs its every day present at the following occasions:
- 11:00 AM: Daily efficiency all through the 12 months.
- 12:00 PM: An extra efficiency from March to October.
- 5:00 PM: An night efficiency from March to October.
If you go to Munich throughout the winter months, catch the 11:00 AM present, as that is the solely every day efficiency in winter. No matter the time you select, arrive a couple of minutes early to safe an excellent viewing spot in Marienplatz.
What efficiency we selected
We selected to be there round 10.40 – and it was an amazing alternative. We have been ready to select our locations in the sq. – maintain in thoughts that this can be a large attraction and plenty of vacationers come right here to see the clock.
There have been a couple of guided excursions there, however there have been additionally vacationers visiting independently.
As you will note, you want to be a bit away from the facade – in any other case you’ll not see all the statues and the dances correctly. It might be simple to work out the place to keep when you get there, belief me.
An attention-grabbing truth
The Munich clock is operated manually by folks. It isn’t an automatic mechanism. Everyday, a number of folks guarantee that folks can get pleasure from the splendid present the clock gives.
How Long Does the Glockenspiel Performance Last?
The efficiency of the Rathaus-Glockenspiel lasts roughly 12 to quarter-hour. This provides you loads of time to get pleasure from the present, take pictures, and soak in the environment of Marienplatz, certainly one of Munich’s busiest and most stunning squares.
During the efficiency, you’ll hear conventional Bavarian tunes performed on the bells, which add to the magical feeling of the expertise. The sound of the bells, mixed with the life-sized figures shifting in a rhythmic dance, is an unforgettable sight.
I admit we recorded the whole present and I used to be planning on posting it on YouTube and together with it right here. But I understand that our recording doesn’t start to reveal the great present the clock in Marienplatz, Munich gives. So I’m inviting you to not miss this when in the space!
Visiting the Rathaus-Glockenspiel: Practical Tips
The Best Viewing Spots for the Rathaus-Glockenspiel
While the Glockenspiel could be seen from anyplace in Marienplatz, the greatest views are from:
To get the greatest view of the Rathaus-Glockenspiel, as I already talked about, it’s really useful to stand in the heart of Marienplatz dealing with the New Town Hall.
The sq. tends to refill shortly, particularly throughout peak vacationer seasons, so it’s a good suggestion to arrive at least 10-quarter-hour earlier than the efficiency begins.
If you’re on the lookout for a fair higher vantage level, you’ll be able to head to the Café Glockenspiel, which is situated in a constructing reverse the New Town Hall. From right here, you’ll be able to get pleasure from a chook’s-eye view of the efficiency whereas sipping a espresso or having fun with a lightweight meal.
Another possibility is the tower of St. Peter’s Church (Alter Peter) for a novel elevated view.
We selected to be in the sq. – although I’ve seen footage on-line of the vire from the cafe and so they have been fairly mesmerizing. So, relying in your funds and timeline, you may select that cafe or the church as an remark level.
Accessibility: How to get to the Rathaus-Glockenspiel
Marienplatz is well accessible by public transportation:
- U-Bahn: Lines U3 and U6, Marienplatz station
- S-Bahn: All strains cease at Marienplatz
We used the MVV app and received to Marienplatz with a mix of bus and U-Bahn.
As we climbed the stairs from U-Bahn we have been welcomed by the spectacular New Town Hall – it was fairly a particular view (once more, for us it was the first attraction we visited in Munich.)
Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your go to by exploring these close by sights:
- Viktualienmarkt: A connoisseur meals market only a quick stroll from Marienplatz
- Frauenkirche: Munich’s iconic cathedral with its distinctive twin towers
- Hofbräuhaus: The world-well-known beer corridor, excellent for experiencing Bavarian tradition
I’ll write detailed articles about them quickly and I’ll hyperlink them right here 🙂
Why the Rathaus-Glockenspiel is a Must-See in Munich
Whether you’re visiting Munich for a day or staying for an extended interval, the Rathaus-Glockenspiel is certainly one of the most memorable experiences you’ll be able to have. It combines Bavarian historical past, custom, and mechanical ingenuity in a method that captivates guests of all ages.
The better part? It’s fully free to watch! You don’t want to purchase a ticket or make a reservation—simply present up at the proper time, and also you’ll be handled to certainly one of Munich’s most iconic sights.
Conclusion: A Timeless Symbol of Munich’s Charm
The Rathaus-Glockenspiel is greater than only a clock; it’s a celebration of Bavarian tradition and a chunk of dwelling historical past.
Its every day performances proceed to enchant guests from round the world, and each side of the efficiency tells a narrative. It’s a reminder of Munich’s deep-rooted traditions and a testomony to the metropolis’s capability to mix the previous with the current.
Whether you’re in historical past or structure, or simply need to expertise one thing actually distinctive, be certain to add the Rathaus-Glockenspiel to your listing of issues to see in Munich.
