Nymphenburg Palace

The Nymphenburg Palace west of Munich is one of the largest royal palaces in Europe and is not to be missed on a sight-seeing tour through the Bavarian capital city. The oft-visited Baroque tourist attraction with it’s expansive landscaped garden and museum draws not only guests from around the world, but is also a beloved institution for Munich residents. In 1664, Prince Ferdinand Maria had the castle built as a present to his wife, who had borne him the long-awaited heir, Max Emanuel. Max Emanuel himself later played a significant role in expanding the palace layout. For many years, the palace buildings were used by the Wittelsbachs as a summer residence. Some spaces have their original Baroque decor intact, while others were later remodeled in Rococo and Classical styles. Prominent architects like Giovanni Antonio Viscardi, Leo von Klenze, and François de Cuvilliés were involved in the expansions – the latter created the Steinernen Saal (“Great Hall”) in which Johann Baptist Zimmermann designed the central ceiling fresco, just two of the many additional attractions at Nymphenburg Palace. Also worth seeing are Ludwig I’s Gallery of Beauties and the chamber where King Ludwig II was born.