Munich, Germany
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Munich is a lively, fun city to visit, especially in August, when everyone is on vacation. You get a real sense of the fun-loving side of the otherwise industrious, organized Germans. There are overflowing beer halls and beer gardens, swimming in the rapid flowing rivers, busy markets and crowds in Marienplatz awaiting the entertainment of the Glockenspiel at the designated times. |
The Glockenspiel dates from 1908. Every day at 11 a.m. (as well as 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. in summer), it chimes and re-enacts two stories from the 16th century. The top half of the Glockenspiel tells the story of the marriage of the local Duke Wilhelm V to Renata of Lorraine. In honor of the couple there is a joust with life-sized knights on horseback representing Bavaria (in white and blue) and Lothringen (in red and white). The Bavarian knight always wins of course.
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The second story is told by the bottom half of the Glockenspiel. The merrily dressed coopers dance the Schäfflertanz (the coopers' dance). According to legend, there was a plague in Munich in 1517. The coopers are said to have danced through the streets to, "bring fresh vitality to fearful dispositions."
The Glockenspiel is very noisy and not so modern, but is fun to watch.
The Glockenspiel is very noisy and not so modern, but is fun to watch.
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In the center of Munich lies the Englischer Garten (English Garden). It is one of the largest urban parks in the world, larger even than New York's Central Park. The Garden is the place to be in the summer. There is swimming, sunbathing, surfing, jogging, biking, lovely gardens and plenty of beer to go around. Grab a picnic lunch and enjoy the cool shade of the trees on a hot summer day. Then walk through the park and watch the locals swim and surf. |
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Visit one of the beer gardens and observe the Germans enjoying life while listening to the lively music of the brass band. Authentic German food is also available in the beer gardens.
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A must see in Munch is the famous Hofbrauhaus am Platzl, one of best known beer halls anywhere. It was founded in 1589 by the Duke of Bavaria, Wilhelm V. It is one of Munich's oldest beer halls and was originally founded as the brewery to the old Royal Residence. Imagine drinking the beer of kings! The beer hall is just a fun place to see, with music playing and everyone enjoying themselves. |