Mary’s Column Statue

At the heart of Munich’s Marienplatz stands Mary’s Column. It’s a beacon of resilience. It’s a symbol of a city that refused to be broken. Mary’s Column is more than just a statue. It’s a living testament to Munich’s enduring spirit. Erected in 1638, Mary’s Column commemorates the end of the Swedish occupation during the Thirty Years’ War. Duke Elector Maximilian I of Bavaria vowed to create this monument if Munich and Landshut were spared from destruction. The column is crowned with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary. She stands atop a crescent moon, embodying the Queen of Heaven. This very statue originally graced the Frauenkirche. Interestingly, Mary’s Column holds the distinction of being the first of its kind north of the Alps. Its creation sparked a wave of similar Marian columns throughout Europe. Look closely at the column’s base. You’ll see four putti, each locked in battle with a different beast. These figures, crafted by Ferdinand Murmann, symbolize the city’s triumph over adversity. The lion represents war. The cockatrice embodies pestilence. The dragon signifies hunger. The serpent depicts heresy. Mary’s Column stands as a powerful reminder of Munich’s ability to overcome challenges. It serves as a symbol of hope and resilience for the city.