Sankt-Anna-Klosterkirche

Journey back to 1727. Imagine the joy echoing through Munich at the birth of Maximilian III Joseph, heir to the Bavarian crown. This joyous occasion led to the construction of Sankt-Anna-Klosterkirche. The church stands as a testament to that celebration. Sankt-Anna-Klosterkirche became the first Rococo church in Old Bavaria. Its unique design significantly influenced religious architecture throughout the region. The church is located in the heart of Lehel. It sits directly across from its neo-Romanesque counterpart, the Catholic parish church of St. Anna im Lehel. Architect Johann Michael Fischer masterfully blended longitudinal and central construction styles. This innovative design was a departure from traditional architectural norms of the time. The opulent interior of Sankt-Anna-Klosterkirche is a masterpiece of the Asam brothers, Cosmas Damian and Egid Quirin, along with Johann Baptist Straub. Their Rococo artistry fills the church with breathtaking details. Tragically, during World War II, bombs rained down upon Munich. Sankt-Anna-Klosterkirche suffered significant damage, particularly in April 1944. The church was later rebuilt. However, the 19th-century neo-Romanesque additions, including the spires, were not included in the reconstruction. In 1968, Erwin Schleich reconstructed Fischer’s original facade. It was moved forward to the location of the former neo-Romanesque front. So, as you stand before Sankt-Anna-Klosterkirche today, you’re witnessing a blend of history, resilience, and artistic brilliance.