Glockenbach Walking Tour

On a cool but sunny Saturday morning we joined a group of expats for a walking tour of the Glockenbach. This is one of the very early neighborhoods which began outside of the city walls in about 1476. It was the location of a Gliesshaus where bells were made. Over the years the area became home to many artisans and day laborers. In the early 1900's the area was known for prostitution. Since the 1950's it has developed as the center of the gay movement. Today it is the most densely populated residential area of Munich. The area is filled with pubs, restaurants and night clubs. It is also home to many art galleries and craft shops.

Our tour began in the oldest cemetery inside the city of Munich. It is as much a park as a cemetery and residents stroll through it constantly. The graves are very old, although many of the oldest ones are no longer there after the cemetery was restructured many years ago. What does exist provides an interesting look at old prominent families. The gravestones are fascinating.

During the tour we learned a lot about the history of the neighborhood and how it has evolved. As part of our tour we visited four local businesses and were presented with some wonderful treats.

Our first stop was Gotterspeise, a Chocolaterie & Cafe. What a brilliant idea for a first stop. We were served several types of house made chocolates and a beverage. Ken & I had the Italian Hot Chocolate. Imagine dark chocolate pudding thinned with cream and heated to perfection. It was heavenly! 

The shops in the area are charming.

And the residential buildings are stately.

Our next stop was a goldsmiths studio tucked into a garden and filled with light. Stefanie showed us some of her working techniques and also treated us to some small appetizers and cocktails.

Our remaining two stops (and tastings) were at a cheese shop and a bakery called Josef. The owner of Josef is a charming man who owns two other small businesses called Jesus and Mary. Gotta love a man with a sense of humor.

Our tummies were full and our feet were tired and we loved it. Each small neighborhood in Munich has its own history and flavor. It makes exploring very interesting.