Munich is certainly a musical city and Marienplatz, the market square known for housing the new town hall (Rathaus) with its famous musical carillon, known as the Glockenspiel is a worthy highlight of any visit.
The Glockenspiel is an ornate carillon or set of bells in a tower that is played by a keyboard or an automated device similar to a piano roll. In this case, there are 43 bells connected with 32 life-sized figures.
The top-level figures depict the marriage of Duke Wilhelm V (who also founded the Hofbrauhaus) which is celebrated by jousting life-sized knights on horseback representing Bavaria and Lothringen. Of course, the Bavarian knight prevails every time. The lower level figures show the Schäfflertanz (the coopers’ or barrel makers’ dance), once a tradition symbolizing perseverance and loyalty even in the most challenging times.
The Glockenspiel plays at 11 am and 12 noon daily and also at 5 pm from March to October. The activity lasts for about 15 minutes and at the end, a small golden rooster at the top utters three chirps to indicate that showtime is over.
There are plenty of places to dine in the area. One popular restaurant is the Donisl just behind the Glockenspiel area. If the weather is good, you’ll find plenty of spots outside to take in the scenery and hear music whenever it plays.
Marianplatz is also a popular place for musicians to perform for crowds. You may hear classical music, popular music, jazz or a combination of styles depending on who feels like playing.
December is also a great time for music at the Marienplatz as holiday carolers sing on the balcony of the Rathaus. And no matter what time of year you are there, you may be able to see and hear music students playing to earn tips that help with tuition for their music studies.
Check out a live HD webcam of Marienplatz to see what’s happening there right now!
You’ll find plenty of places to eat in the area as well, so you’ll be able to enjoy a schnitzel and bier to tide you over until the next performance!
THE QUICK BITE: Munich is certainly a musical city and Marienplatz, the market square known for housing the new town hall (Rathaus) with its famous musical carillon, known as the Glockenspiel is a worthy highlight of any visit.
