The Residenz Museum (Munich Residenz)

The Residence Museum (Residenz Museum) is the city's most important (and largest) museum and gallery, housed in the huge Munich Residenz (Munich Residence), the primary residence of Bavaria's kings. While much of this huge palace complex is open to the public, many of its more interesting sites are included under the umbrella of the Residenz Museum, which opened to the public in 1920 and is now considered one of the best palace museums in Europe.

The magnificent Antiquarium is a highlight of any visit. This 69-meter-long hall, with its barrel-vaulted roof and side vaults over the windows, was the first component of the Residenz to be built (it was completed in 1571). It is packed with antique busts and statues. There are also over 100 painted vistas of Bavaria's most beautiful cities and castles. The Ancestors' Gallery (Ahnengalerie) is also worth seeing. This gallery houses 121 portraits of Bavarian kings, while the Porzellankabinett (Porzellankabinett) houses extensive porcelain collections from Vienna, Meissen, and Würzburg. A beautiful bronze sculpture of Mercury and the lovely Perseus Fountain from the same period highlights the eccentric Grotto Court (Grottenhof), which was built from crystals and shells in 1586.

Admission includes a free audio guide, and guided tours in English can be booked ahead of time. You can check out the attraction's website for information on upcoming concerts and activities, such as musical performances and educational programs.

Address: Residenzstraße 1, 80333 München
Website: www.residenz-muenchen.de/