Consider Munich spared. That’s the essence of the Mariensäule, standing tall in Marienplatz. It is a testament to a vow made in a time of war. Duke Elector Maximilian I of Bavaria pledged to erect this column. His prayer was for Munich and Landshut to avoid destruction during the Thirty Years’ War.
The Mariensäule has been here since 1638. It marks the end of Swedish occupation. The square, Marienplatz, got its name from this very column. Before that, it was known as Schrannenplatz, the grain market square.
Look up! At the top stands a golden statue. It depicts the Virgin Mary as the Queen of Heaven. She stands on a crescent moon. This statue wasn’t new. It was created in 1590 and first resided in the Frauenkirche. The Mariensäule in Munich was the first of its kind north of the Alps. It inspired other Marian columns across Europe.
Take a closer look at the base. Four putti, sculpted by Ferdinand Murmann, adorn the corners. Each putto battles a beast. These beasts represent the adversities Munich overcame. A lion symbolizes war. A cockatrice stands for pestilence. A dragon embodies hunger or famine. A serpent signifies heresy.
Marienplatz is more than just the Mariensäule. It is the heart of Munich. Markets and tournaments once filled this space. Today, the New Town Hall and Old Town Hall frame the square. The Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall draws crowds. Its performance recalls the medieval tournaments once held here.
Notice the bustling pedestrian zone. It stretches from Karlsplatz to Marienplatz. Shops, bars, and restaurants line the way. The Mariensäule stands as a silent witness to the city’s vibrant life. It has seen centuries of change.
Every year, the Christkindlmarkt arrives. Three weeks before Christmas, Marienplatz transforms. It fills with stalls selling Christmas goods, food, and drink. The Mariensäule watches over the festive scene.
The full inscription on the Mariensaule is in Latin: “DEO OPTIMO MAXIMO”. This translates to “TO GOD THE BEST AND GREATEST”. This column is more than just a monument. It embodies Munich’s history, faith, and resilience.
So, remember the Mariensäule. It is a symbol of Munich’s survival and enduring spirit. It is a reminder of a vow made and a prayer answered. The golden Virgin Mary continues to watch over the city.