Allerheiligen-Hofkirche

Allerheiligen-Hofkirche is the former court church of the Munich Residenz and one of the city's most unusual buildings: a church designed in Byzantine-Romanesque style that is no longer used for regular worship but now serves as a concert and event space. Its clean architecture, modeled on Norman buildings in Sicily, stands in clear contrast to the Baroque and Rococo churches that otherwise dominate Munich.

History of Allerheiligen-Hofkirche

King Ludwig I had the church built between 1826 and 1837 by his court architect Leo von Klenze, who drew heavily on the Palatine Chapel in Palermo as a model. The court church was severely destroyed during the Second World War and remained a ruin for decades. It was not restored until 2003, when it reopened as a secular space for concerts, receptions and cultural events, with the original interior decoration deliberately left unreconstructed.

Architecture & Highlights

Characteristic features include the clean geometric forms, round-arched windows and the simple, almost meditative interior atmosphere, which contrasts sharply with Munich's otherwise lavishly decorated Baroque churches. As part of the Residenz, the court church can be visited in conjunction with a tour of the palace's opulent state rooms, or experienced during events.

Visitor Tips & Getting There

Allerheiligen-Hofkirche sits within the Residenz complex in the heart of the old town, an easy walk from Marienplatz or Odeonsplatz. Since it is used today primarily for events, it's worth checking current accessibility and event dates on the Residenz's official website.

Nearby Attractions

Directly adjoining is the Munich Residenz with the Residenzmuseum and the Cuvilliés Theatre, and the Hofgarten invites a stroll afterward. Odeonsplatz, with the Theatinerkirche and Feldherrnhalle, is also just a few steps away.