Nymphenburg Palace, a Baroque-style palace located in the Bavarian capital of Munich, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany. It was the main summer residence of the Bavarian rulers of the House of Wittelsbach. Built in 1664 by the then-ruling Elector Ferdinand Maria, it was expanded over the years by successive rulers and today is a sprawling complex of palaces, pavilions, courtyards, and gardens.
History
The history of the Nymphenburg Palace can be traced back to 1664, when Elector Ferdinand Maria of Bavaria began construction of the palace. The palace was originally intended as a summer residence for the Wittelsbach family, and over the centuries, it was expanded and remodeled by successive rulers. In 1701, Elector Maximilian II Emanuel began construction of the Nymphenburg Park, a vast area of gardens, pavilions, and lakes that surrounds the palace. The palace complex also includes the Amalienburg, a Rococo-style hunting lodge built in 1734.
Architecture
The Nymphenburg Palace is a Baroque-style building with a rectangular courtyard surrounded by four wings. The palace has an ornate exterior, with the four wings adorned with ornamental sculptures and statues. Inside, the palace is equally ornate, with a grand staircase, high ceilings, and numerous rooms, each of which has its own unique décor and furnishings.
Gardens and Pavilions
The Nymphenburg Palace is surrounded by a vast park, which includes several pavilions, gardens, and lakes. The park was designed by Elector Maximilian II Emanuel in 1701 and is one of the largest parks in Germany. It includes the Amalienburg, a Rococo-style hunting lodge built in 1734, and the Magdalenenklause, a pavilion built in 1746.
The park also includes several gardens, including the Great Parterre, a formal garden with symmetrical flower beds, and the Botanical Garden, a garden with a variety of plants and trees. The park is also home to a number of lakes, including the Baden Lake, which was created in 1701, and the Nymphaeum, a lake surrounded by a garden with a fountain.
Museums and Galleries
The Nymphenburg Palace is home to several museums and galleries. The Porcelain Museum is located in the Amalienburg pavilion and contains a collection of over 30,000 pieces of porcelain. The Schlossmuseum, located in the palace, contains a collection of paintings, furniture, and other artifacts from the palace’s history. The Marstallmuseum, located in the Marstall building, is home to a collection of carriages and other items related to horse-riding. The palace also houses a number of galleries, including the Old Picture Gallery, which contains a collection of Old Master paintings.
Events and Tours
The Nymphenburg Palace is open to the public and offers a variety of events and tours. Guided tours are available in English, German, French, and Spanish. The palace also hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year, including the Nymphenburg Summer Festival, a classical music festival held in July and August.
In addition, the palace is home to the Nymphenburg Porcelain Factory, which produces high-quality porcelain pieces. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and watch the porcelain makers at work.
Conclusion
The Nymphenburg Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany. With its Baroque architecture, gardens, pavilions, museums, galleries, and events, it is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Munich.
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