The Glockenspiel – Munich

First visit to Munich and the seeing the Glockenspiel.

Exploring Munich: Our first stop in Munich was the renowned Glockenspiel at Marienplatz, a destination I’d long anticipated. Reflecting on memories from 1989 when my former boss, during his inaugural international journey, gifted me a souvenir from Munich and shared tales of the impressive Glockenspiel, I was eager to witness it firsthand.

Captivating Performance: Joining a sizable crowd, we eagerly awaited the spectacle. At precisely 12 pm, the melodious tolling of bells signaled the commencement of the show, featuring life-sized dolls in an enchanting performance. It truly felt like a magical experience, evoking a sense of wonder and nostalgia.

 What is the Glockenspiel exactly?

“Glockenspiel: Discover the enchanting chiming clock adorned with dancing figures performing the Schäfflertanz, a historic dance originating from the end of the 1500s plague era. Situated atop the towering pillars of the New Town Hall, these lifelike figures captivate with their almost human-sized presence.

Mesmerizing Melodies: The crystal-clear resonance of the bells resonates with a haunting clarity, sending shivers down the spine and adding to the immersive experience.”

Though the melody of the song has faded from memory over time, the moment I stood entranced in Marienplatz, enveloped by the captivating sound of the Glockenspiel, remains etched in my mind forever.

Interesting facts about the Glockenspiel:

• There are 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures.

• The top half of the Glockenspiel tells the story of the marriage of the local Duke Wilhelm V to Renata of Lorraine.

• In honour of the couple there is a joust with life-sized knights on horseback. The white and blue knight is representing Bavaria and the red and white knight Lothringen.

• The Bavarian knight wins every time.

• The bottom half then follows and tells a 2nd story. The one of the plague. People went into hiding and the first people to dare to go back onto the streets were barrel makers who performed a big dance to show it was okay to come out again.

• The Duke of Bavaria was so happy about this that he ordered them to re-enact this every seven years. This custom continues to this day.

• The dance can be seen during the German Carnival (Fasching). The next one will only take place in 2012.

• The show lasts 12 to 15 minutes.

• At the end of the show a very small golden bird chirps 3 times.

It goes off every day at 11am, 12pm and 5pm.

Address:

Bounded by Kaufingerstr.
Rosenstr. Weinstr. Munich, Bavaria, Germany