Garmisch-Partenkirchen Germany

Sights in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

The Zugspitze (2,962 meters – nearly 7,000 feet) is the highest peak in Germany, sitting at the base of the alps. At the foot of this mountain you will find the traditionally Bavarian, Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The two cities, Garmisch and Partenkirchen, became one entity in 1935. Until then they were separate towns with their own history. It is Germany’s top winter sport destination and a world class ski resort.

Garmisch is know for its traditional music, spas, concerts, cabaret, theaters featuring performances of Richard Strauss and military music festivals. Sometimes you see local people dressed in traditional style such as women in “Dirndl” and men in “Lederhosen.”

The town became famous when it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1936. The Olympic ice rink and ski jumping stadium are still used today for many competitions and can be viewed by visitors or groups who are interested.

Sights in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Ruins of Werdenfels Castle- The Romanesque and gothic style ruins were owned by Otto VII. He built up the fortress as a protection for the military road. The name ‘Werdenfells’ had many meanings, but the most obvious one seems to be “Defend the Rock.”

Historic Ludwig Street (Ludwigstrasse)- Once upon a time, maybe 1000 years ago Ludwigstrasse was the local trading place in the Weldenfelser land. Today it is the heart of Partenkirchen.

Pilgrimage Church of St. Anton (Wallfahrtskirche St. Anton)- This simple chapel was built and dedicated to St. Anton in the 17th century. The master builder, Joseph Schmutzer, used both baroque elements and rococo style for this masterpiece. It was painted in 1736 by Johann Evangelist Holzer.

The Hunting Lodge (Jagdschloss)- For those who feel like taking a walk, you shouldn’t miss King Ludwig II’s lesser-known Hunting Lodge at Schachen Mountain. This lodge served as a retreat for the king during his visits in the mountain.

Werdenfels Museum- This museum is located in a historical building on Partenkirchner Ludwig Street, which survived a fire in 1865. It is one of the nicest museums in Bavaria and it reflects the history and culture of Weldenfels area.

Casino- Exhausted from so much culture and history? Then your perfect day should end in the elegant Garmisch-Partenkirchen Casino. You can play Roulette, blackjack, poker and many slot machines.

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