When you stroll through Munich’s Old Town, you’re sure to find yourself drawn to Marienplatz, the Residenz, or the bustling shopping streets. But right behind these famous landmarks and just a few steps from Maximilianstraße lies an architectural masterpiece that many passersby overlook: the Alte Münze. Anyone who passes through the historic gate at Hofgraben 4 finds themselves standing before a piece of Renaissance history right in the heart of the city.
From the ducal stables to the royal mint
This impressive building was constructed between 1563 and 1567 on behalf of Duke Albrecht V. Originally, the building served as a royal stable for the princely horses as well as a ducal art chamber.
It wasn’t until centuries later that the complex’s function changed fundamentally. As part of the reorganization of the Kingdom of Bavaria, the building was converted into the main mint in 1809. Over the following 177 years, countless coins were minted here.
The Arkadenhof: Renaissance Architecture in Munich’s Old Town
The undisputed highlight of the Alte Münze is its spectacular Renaissance courtyard. Columned arches stretch across three stories. When you stand in the courtyard, you immediately sense its special charm.
Since 1986 , the Bavarian State Office for the Preservation of Historical Monuments has had its headquarters here. It ensures that Bavaria’s architectural heritage is preserved—in a location that is itself one of the state capital’s most significant monuments.
Take a look behind the scenes on Open Monument Day
Normally, you can enter the imposing inner courtyard free of charge on weekdays to admire the architecture. However, a very special experience awaits you every September: On the nationwide Open Monument Day, the Bavarian State Office for the Preservation of Historical Monuments also opens the otherwise locked doors of the Alte Münze to visitors.
On this special event day, you can enjoy free guided tours through the history of the building, the restoration workshops, and the vast image archive. An exciting outdoor escape game and a children’s program round out the lineup . If you want to discover Munich’s hidden landmarks, be sure to mark this day on your calendar!
