The most renowned monarch of Bavaria, King Ludwig II (1845 to 1886), is laid to rest in the St. Michael Church in Munich. The crypt located in the basement was created as the final resting place for the House of Wittelsbach.
While visiting Munich a couple of years ago, I unexpectedly stumbled upon a sign in front of a beautiful church as I was walking towards Maximilianstrasse. To my delight, I immediately recognized the familiar face of King Ludwig II staring back at me.
I was filled with curiosity and decided to step inside St. Michael’s Church, where I was warmly greeted by the stunning early Baroque architecture that surrounded me. It turns out this magnificent structure is the largest Renaissance church located north of the Alps, and this architectural style has had a significant influence on Southern Germany throughout history.
It just so happens that St. Michael’s Church serves as the burial place for the House of Wittelsbach, which is why it features a princely crypt. This crypt is one of the most significant burial sites of the Bavarian dynasty, alongside other notable locations such as Theatinerkirche and the Frauenkirche.
St. Michael’s Church boasts an impressive exterior adorned with statues of Duke Wilhelm and various rulers from the Wittelsbach dynasty, a prominent Bavarian family. These sculptures, cast in bronze, symbolize the intricate family tree that connects this illustrious lineage throughout history.
A large bronze statue between the two entrances shows the Archangel Michael fighting for the Faith and the killing of the Evil in the shape of a demon
The interior of St. Michael’s Church represents the triumph and consolidation of Roman Catholicism in Southern Germany, particularly in Bavaria, during the Counter-Reformation. The heavily indented arches and side aisles, along with the intricately designed side chapels, are all meant to evoke the grandeur of a triumphal arch from ancient times.
The exquisite stucco work, adorning the nave beautifully, represents the life of Jesus and illustrating key moments in his journey. Additionally, the remarkable altarpiece titled “Annunciation,” created by the renowned artist Peter Candid in 1587, adds to the church’s artistic grandeur. Furthermore, one can also admire the striking sculpture of the holy angel located in the nave, crafted by Hubert Gerhard in 1595.
The most famous ruler of Bavaria, King Ludwig II (1845 to 1886), rests in the basement of St. Michael’s Church. The crypt located in the cellar was specifically designed as the burial site for the House of Wittelsbach and therefore includes a princely crypt, which is recognized as one of the most important burial sites associated with the Bavarian ruling house throughout history.
Known for his romanticism and architectural vision, Ludwig II commissioned the iconic castles of Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, and Herrenchiemsee. His tomb is the most visited in the crypt, drawing admirers from around the world.
