The baroque palace in the west part of Munich was the summer residence of the Bavarian monarchs. Five generations of Wittelsbach rulers were involved in the construction of this stately ensemble, which houses several outstanding collections. With its lavishly decorated interior and the famous "Gallery of Beauties" commissioned by Ludwig I, the palace is one of Munich's favorite attractions. Among the highlights are the former bedroom of King Ludwig II and the impressive banquet hall with fine ceiling frescoes by Johann Baptist Zimmermann.
Nymphenburg was originally Ferdinand Maria's present to his wife Henriette Adelaide on the birth of his heir, in 1675. This was the beginning of a splendid baroque creation. The same heir, Maximilian Emanuel, commissioned the construction of symmetrical buildings, that were connected to the central section by galleries. From 1715 on, fired by their monarch's enthusiasm, the craftsmen, hired for the most part from France or Flanders, worked wonders in the expansion of Nymphenburg and the building of Schleißheim Palace.
While you're there, be sure not to miss the Marstallmuseum and the Porcelain Museum, the Museum Mensch und Natur and the Botanical Garden.
Nymphenburg Palace Park
The landscaped park with its venerable trees, myriad waterways and secluded pavilions is an ideal place to go exploring.
Reference: Munich Tourist Office
