Maximilianstraße

Maximilianstraße is a royal avenue in Munich, one of four planned in the 19th century. It runs east–west from Max-Joseph-Platz, where the Residenz palace and National Theatre stand. King Maximilian II of Bavaria commissioned the street in 1850 and named it after himself. The lead architect was Friedrich Bürklein, who shaped its neo-Gothic appearance. The avenue is framed by neo-Gothic buildings in the English Perpendicular style. After World War II, a circular road cut through the middle, altering its original design. The street combines historical architectural styles with modern building techniques. Notable buildings include the Schauspielhaus by Max Littmann, the district government building by Bürklein, and the Museum Fünf Kontinente by Eduard Riedel. Monuments to figures like Deroy and Fraunhofer line the avenue, alongside the Maxmonument dedicated to King Maximilian II. The Maximilianeum, home to a gifted students’ foundation and the Bavarian Landtag, stands further east after crossing the Isar. Its neo-Renaissance facade replaced an earlier neo-Gothic plan due to structural issues. Maximilianstraße is also Munich’s most expensive shopping street. Luxury boutiques such as Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Louis Vuitton occupy its western portion. The Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, a five-star Kempinski property, anchors the area. Traditional shops and art galleries have gradually given way to high-end brands. The street’s blend of grand architecture and high-end retail makes it a distinctive part of Munich’s urban landscape.