Zentrum

The center of Munich is known as Zentrum. It is the heart of the city and the main area for shopping, dining and public gatherings. Our apartment is not very far from Zentrum. It is about a ten to fifteen minute walk and when the weather is nice that is our favorite way to get there. Otherwise we are one U-Bahn stop away.

Something that amazes me and makes me smile every time is exiting the U-Bahn station.That may sound odd until you see what surrounds the exit at Odeonsplatz.

Odeonzplatz is also the southwest corner of English Gardens.

Just about the most beautiful subway exit ever.

A short walk along Theatinerstrasse leads to Marianplatz, the actual city center.

Marienplatz (St, Mary's Square) has been the city's main square since 1158. It is dominated by the Neues Rathaus (New City Hall).

In the foreground of the second photo you can also see the Marian Column. It was erected in 1638 to Celebrate the end of Swedish occupation during the Thirty Years' War. The tower of city hall holds the Glockenspiel. It is an animated carillon that was inspired by the markets and tournaments that were held in the square during the Middle Ages.

From Marienplatz there are streets filled with all kinds of shopping and restaurants in every direction. It is all a pedestrian area and quite often there are street performers of all types from magicians to Bavarian musicians to rock bands. It provides a happy atmosphere to all those wandering the plaza.