St. Michael’s München

This is St. Michael’s Church, or Sankt Michael München as they say in German! Now, don’t let its relatively simple exterior fool you, because inside, this church is an absolute Baroque masterpiece! Get ready for a visual feast of stunning artwork, intricate details, and a story filled with power and ambition.

So, St. Michael’s Church wasn’t just any church. It was built by Duke Wilhelm V, the same Duke who was wed in that jousting tournament we saw at the Glockenspiel in Marienplatz. He built it as a spiritual center for the Counter-Reformation in Bavaria. In other words, it was built to reaffirm Catholicism in the region, at a time when Protestantism was spreading.

The building of St. Michael’s was quite a story in itself. Construction started in 1583, but the original tower collapsed in 1590, before it was even finished! That was a major setback! They had to rebuild it, but in the end, it was worth it.

One of the key goals for this church was to make it very large so it can bring together as many church goers as possible.

What makes St. Michael’s Church so special?

First off, the architecture. The exterior might seem simple, but the interior is a completely different story. It’s a symphony of Baroque design, with soaring arches, gilded decorations, and an abundance of sculptures and paintings.

One of the most striking features is the barrel vault, the second largest in the world. It’s HUGE, and it’s covered in stunning frescoes. The barrel vault makes a huge nave where many people could gather and worship together.

The high altar is absolutely breathtaking. It’s adorned with intricate carvings, statues, and paintings, all illuminated by natural light streaming through the windows.

And don’t miss the tomb of Duke Wilhelm V, the church’s founder. It’s a magnificent piece of art in itself, reflecting his power and legacy. Inside the Crypt are also the remains of other important figures from Bavarian history, including King Ludwig II, the fairytale king.

As you wander through the church, pay attention to the details. Every corner is filled with something beautiful and interesting, from the intricate stucco work to the colorful stained glass windows.

The St. Michael’s Church is a testament to the power of faith, the ambition of rulers, and the skill of artists. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in beauty, history, and spirituality. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Munich.

If the door is open, look inside too.