Could those bronze putti at the base of the Mariens\u00e4ule actually be battling the misfortunes that once threatened Munich? Today we are standing before the Mariens\u00e4ule. It is a monument steeped in history and symbolism. Erected in 1638, the Mariens\u00e4ule commemorates the end of Swedish occupation during the Thirty Years’ War. Duke Elector Maximilian I of Bavaria vowed to erect a “god-pleasing work”. He promised this if Munich and Landshut were spared from war destruction.
The city of Munich was occupied by Swedish troops. The military leadership demanded its destruction in retaliation for the destruction of Magdeburg. King Gustav II Adolf of Sweden decided against his military leadership. He spared Munich. Both cities were spared. People spoke of the Miracle of Munich. Maximilian ordered the Mariens\u00e4ule to be erected on Marienplatz. It was made of Adnet marble.
The Mariens\u00e4ule is dedicated to Mary. Mary is revered as Patrona Bavariae, the Protector of Bavaria. The Latin inscription on the column reflects this devotion. It acknowledges Mary as Bavaria’s gracious patron. The inscription thanks her for preserving the homeland, cities, army, and its hopes.
The golden statue atop the Mariens\u00e4ule is especially striking. Created in 1590, it depicts the Virgin Mary standing on a crescent moon. She reigns as the Queen of Heaven. This statue was originally in the Frauenkirche. The Mariens\u00e4ule was the first of its kind north of the Alps. It inspired other Marian columns in Europe.
Take a closer look at the base. Here, four putti, created by Ferdinand Murmann, fight different beasts. Each beast symbolizes a different adversity overcome by the city. The lion represents war. The cockatrice symbolizes pestilence. The dragon embodies hunger or famine. The serpent signifies heresy. These putti serve as reminders of Munich’s resilience. They show the city’s ability to overcome challenges.
The Mariens\u00e4ule has been a focal point for religious observance. Until 1773, processions took place annually. They occurred on the first Sunday after All Saints’ Day. Public litanies were forbidden in 1803 but resumed in 1854. Even today, public prayers are held at the Mariens\u00e4ule.
Popes have also visited the Mariens\u00e4ule. Pope Pius VI prayed here in 1782. Pope John Paul II visited in 1980. Pope Benedict XVI visited in 2006. Their visits are commemorated with inscriptions on the base. The Archbishops of Munich and Freising are traditionally received at the Mariens\u00e4ule. This happens at the beginning and end of their terms.
During World War II, the statue was moved to the Frauenkirche for safekeeping. It was returned to Marienplatz in 1945. During the construction of the U-Bahn and S-Bahn, the Mariens\u00e4ule was temporarily removed in 1966. The baroque base and column were replaced with a copy in 1970. The figure was newly gilded.
Interestingly, the Mariens\u00e4ule is considered the center of Bavaria. Distances on signposts to Munich are measured to the Mariens\u00e4ule. So as you leave Marienplatz, remember the Mariens\u00e4ule. Think of it as a symbol of Munich’s survival and faith.