Description: Once home to markets, tournaments and executions in the middle ages, Marienplatz, also known as St. Mary’s Square, remains the thriving heart of old Munich, and a popular spot for sightseeing and people watching. The highlight of the square has to be the massive New City Hall, also known as the Rathaus, which towers 259 feet above the streets below. Visitors flock to the City Hall every day to watch the performance of its famous Glockenspeil. As the Glockenspeil’s 43 bells chime, the 32 life-size figures reenact two different 16th century tales. In the center of the square stands the Mariensaule, also known as the Column of Mary, while 15th century Gothic Old City Hall occupies the east side of the square. Lots of shops and restaurants line the pedestrian area between the Marienplatz and nearby Karlsplatz, though those longing for classic market fare will need to walk to the Viktualienmarkt to stock up on farm-fresh provisions and other goodies.
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