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War Memorial in the Courtyard: A Place for Reflection

Reflect on Munich's past at the War Memorial in the Courtyard, a solemn tribute to the city's fallen soldiers located in the tranquil Hofgarten, open daily for quiet contemplation.

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The War Memorial in the Courtyard, or Kriegerdenkmal, stands as a poignant reminder of Munich's past. Located in the serene Hofgarten, this memorial commemorates the soldiers from Munich who lost their lives in World War I and World War II. Inaugurated in 1924, the memorial features an open crypt with a statue of a fallen soldier, symbolizing sacrifice and bravery. Visitors can descend into the crypt via four cornered stairs, where inscriptions honor the fallen. The site provides a space for quiet reflection amidst the bustling city, encouraging visitors to contemplate the impact of war and the importance of peace. Open daily from 7 am to 10 pm, the memorial offers a free and accessible experience for those wishing to pay their respects and learn about Munich's history.

A brief summary to War memorial in the courtyard

  • Munich, Altstadt-Lehel, 80539, DE

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours for better visibility and safety, as the memorial is an open-air site.
  • Take a moment to read the inscriptions and reflect on the history and significance of the memorial.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the Hofgarten and explore nearby attractions like the Residenz and Odeonsplatz.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The War Memorial in the Courtyard is easily accessible via Munich's efficient public transport system. From Marienplatz, take the U-Bahn U3 or U6 line to Odeonsplatz station. From Odeonsplatz, walk east through the Hofgarten for approximately 5 minutes. The memorial will be on your right, near the Bavarian State Chancellery. A single journey ticket for the U-Bahn costs around €3.70.

  • Walking

    From Odeonsplatz, the War Memorial is a short and pleasant walk through the Hofgarten. Head east from Odeonsplatz, passing the Feldherrnhalle. Enter the Hofgarten and continue straight along the main path. The memorial will be visible on your right, near the Bavarian State Chancellery. The walk takes approximately 5 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to the War Memorial in the Courtyard will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €15 and €20. Ask the driver to drop you off at Odeonsplatz or directly at the Hofgarten entrance.

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The War Memorial in the Courtyard, known as Kriegerdenkmal in German, is a significant historical monument nestled within Munich's Hofgarten. This memorial serves as a solemn tribute to the soldiers of Munich who perished in World War I and World War II, offering a space for reflection and remembrance in the heart of the city. Inaugurated in 1924, the Kriegerdenkmal was designed by sculptor Karl Knappe and architects Thomas Wechs and Eberhard Finsterwalder. The memorial features an open crypt, accessed by four cornered stairs, in which lies a statue of a fallen soldier. This statue, originally crafted from marble by Bernhard Bleeker, was replaced with a bronze cast in 1972 and is now housed in the Bavarian Army Museum in Ingolstadt. The open crypt design allows visitors to descend into a space that encourages contemplation and respect for the sacrifices made during wartime. The Hofgarten itself provides a tranquil setting for the memorial. This formal garden, dating back to the early 17th century, offers a geometrically designed retreat from the urban environment. The Kriegerdenkmal is positioned at the eastern end of the Hofgarten, near the Bayerische Staatskanzlei (Bavarian State Chancellery), making it easily accessible to visitors exploring the city center. The memorial's inscriptions add depth to its significance. Originally, the names of the fallen soldiers from Munich were engraved on the walls. However, due to damage sustained during World War II, the memorial was rebuilt without the names. Instead, an inscription was added to commemorate the 22,000 killed in action, 11,000 missing, and 6,600 victims of the aerial warfare in Munich between 1939 and 1945. Inside the crypt, visitors can find the inscription “Unseren Gefallenen” (“For our dead”), while the exterior displays the sentence “Sie werden auferstehen” (“They will rise”). Visiting the Kriegerdenkmal offers a chance to connect with Munich's history and reflect on the broader themes of war and peace. The memorial is open daily from 7 am to 10 pm, providing ample opportunity for visitors to experience its solemn atmosphere. As a place of respect and remembrance, visitors are encouraged to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor while on site. The Kriegerdenkmal is surrounded by other notable landmarks, enhancing its appeal as part of a broader exploration of Munich's cultural and historical sites. Nearby attractions include the Residenz, the Odeonsplatz, and the Englische Garten, all within easy walking distance. The memorial's central location makes it a convenient stop for those touring the city. The memorial serves as a reminder of the impact of war on Munich and its people. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the city and its commitment to honoring those who gave their lives. The Kriegerdenkmal is not only a historical site but also a place for present-day reflection and contemplation. For those interested in delving deeper into the history of the Kriegerdenkmal, additional resources are available. The Bavarian Army Museum in Ingolstadt houses the original marble statue of the fallen soldier, offering further insight into the memorial's artistic and historical context. The Nazi Documentation Center in Munich provides comprehensive information on the city's role during the Third Reich, including the impact of both World Wars on the region. The Kriegerdenkmal in Munich's Hofgarten is more than just a monument; it is a place where history, memory, and reflection converge. Its serene setting, poignant inscriptions, and symbolic statue create a powerful experience for all who visit. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student of war, or simply seeking a quiet moment of contemplation, the Kriegerdenkmal offers a meaningful and enriching experience in the heart of Munich.

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