Munich Squares: Odeonsplatz

The Odeonsplatz is located north of the historic city center. Roads from all four directions lead to it: the Residenzstrasse as well as the Theatinerstrasse from the south, the Briennerstrassse from the west, the Hofgartenstrasse from the east and the Ludwigsstrasse from the north.

Already in 1790, plans were developed to create a central square instead of the northern city gate, the Schwabinger Tor, in order to design the exit from the Residenz to the royal path (now Briennerstrasse) to the Nymphenburg Castle in a more attractive way.

Within the scope of the defortification and enlargement of Munich, crown prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I.) decided to have created this square as well as a luxurious main road to the north of Munich and put Leo v. Klenze in charge of the design in 1816. As there were no private sponsors available, mainly official buildings were constructed at the Ludwigsstrasse that now accommodates many faculties of the University of Munich, the Ludwig-Maximilians-University.

The "Feldherrnhalle" (1841-1844) that is located at the Odeonsplatz between Theatiner- and Residenzstrasse was designed by Friedrich v. Gärtner on the model of the Logga dei Lanzi in Florence. Ludwig I. wanted to have erected a victory monument on the Bavarian army and its generals. The two bronze statues in front of the "Feldherrnhalle" designed by Ludwig v. Schwanthaler are cast from melted canons and represent Earl Tilly and Prince Wrede. The statue in the center of the hall was set up in 1892 by prince regent Luitpold.

Also located at the Odeonsplatz is the Theatinerkirche, St. Kajetan, and of course, the Residenz. When you pass the gate next to the Residenz you come into the Hofgarten.