Dreaming of Bavaria’s protection brings us to this very spot. Here stands the Mariensaule. It is a testament to Munich’s resilience and faith. Let’s explore its story.
The Mariensaule is also known as Mary’s Column. It graces Marienplatz, the heart of Munich. Mary stands as Patrona Bavariae or Protector of Bavaria. This column marks a pivotal moment in Munich’s history.
In 1638, this Marian column rose to celebrate the end of Swedish occupation. This happened during the tumultuous Thirty Years’ War. Duke Elector Maximilian I of Bavaria made a vow. If Munich and Landshut were spared from destruction, he would erect a “god-pleasing work”.
Munich was occupied by Swedish troops. The military leaders demanded its destruction. This was also revenge for the destruction of Magdeburg. Yet, in this perilous situation, Swedish King Gustav II Adolf decided against his commanders.
Both cities were spared and people called it the Miracle of Munich. Maximilian commissioned the Mariensaule. It was made of Adnet marble. The column stands tall on Marienplatz. The Latin inscription reflects his vow. It honors Mary as Bavaria’s patron.
The Mariensaule was dedicated on November 7, 1638. Freising Bishop Veit Adam von Gepeckh led the ceremony. Elector Maximilian recited a prayer by Jesuit poet Jakob Balde. The prayer asked for the Virgin Mary’s protection of Bavaria.
A gilded bronze statue crowns the Mariensaule. It depicts the Virgin Mary standing on a crescent moon. She is the Queen of Heaven. Hubert Gerhard likely created the statue in 1590. It was first placed in the Frauenkirche.
In 1639, four bronze putti were added to the base. These figures symbolize Munich’s triumph over adversity. Each putto battles a different beast. The lion represents war. The cockatrice symbolizes pestilence. The dragon signifies hunger or famine. The serpent embodies heresy.
During World War II, the statue was sheltered in the Frauenkirche. In 1945, it was returned to Marienplatz by Cardinal Michael von Faulhaber. While constructing Munich’s U- and S-Bahn, the Mariensaule was temporarily removed in 1966. In November 1970, it was re-erected with a replica of the baroque base. The statue was newly gilded.
The Mariensaule inspired similar columns across Europe. These include those in Wernstein am Inn and Prague. The Munich column served as a model for the Freising Mariensaule in 1674. It also inspired the Trier Mariensaule in 1866.
Until 1773, processions took place annually on the first Sunday after All Saints’ Day. Public litanies were banned in 1803 but resumed in 1854. Today, public prayers still occur at the Mariensaule.
Popes have visited this sacred spot. Pope Pius VI prayed here in 1782. Pope John Paul II visited in 1980. Pope Benedict XVI came in 2006. These visits are commemorated on the base.
The Mariensaule stands not just as a monument. It is a symbol of resilience. It embodies faith and a protector for all.