Visiting the New Town Hall - Glockenspiel
Built between 1867 and 1908, the New Town Hall in Munich is a landmark located right on Marienplatz, the main square of the city. Its 100-meter-long neo-gothic facade features heavy ornamentation and numerous sculptures. With a main tower standing 85 meters high, the architecture of the building draws comparisons to its counterpart on the Grand Place in Brussels.
Checking out the Glockenspiel
One of the main draws of the New Town Hall is its exceptional carillon system, which chimes and performs every day at 11 AM and 12 PM, with an extra summer show at 5 PM for onlookers and curious travelers. Across the central section, 32 figures and 43 bells move in sequence to reenact the exploits and wedding of Duke Wilhelm V of Bavaria. Automated figures also perform a traditional Cooper's Dance on the lower level, commemorating the end of the 1517 plague outbreak.
On the second floor, a large balcony overlooking Marienplatz hosts major civic celebrations, such as the championship rallies of Bayern Munich, the local soccer club, along with concerts and holiday events when a massive Christmas market fills Marienplatz.
A great view over Munich
Beyond the ornate facade of the New Town Hall, visitors can step inside for guided tours or rotating exhibitions. The Town Hall Tower itself stays open to the public daily until 8 PM. Climbing the steps gives you a sweeping vantage point over the Munich old town, with admission priced at $6.80*.
This is the building to see at Marienplatz. Its magnificent neo-Gothic architecture reminds me of the Rathaus in Vienna. The tower has a clock with a pretty carillon that rings every day at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. Figurines reenact the history of the city at the same time. It is a show you should not miss. Unfortunately, I did not have time to explore the inside, but guided tours can be booked.