Looking for a bit of romance in the middle of Munich? The Bavarian capital has more than enough to offer! Apart from the best date ideas, there are also some picturesque castles in the region. This even includes the longest castle in the world, a world record. But the most romantic castles can also be found in the middle of Munich itself – and we’re not talking about the well-known Nymphenburg Castle, but the enchanted Blutenburg.
It is located off the beaten track in Munich’s Obermenzing district, directly on the Würm river. Surrounded by tranquil greenery on the banks of the river, there are also a number of leisurely walks right next to Blutenburg Castle. A visit here feels like a journey back in time: The medieval castle with its five small towers, the massive manor house and the late Gothic castle chapel look like something straight out of a movie. And so does their history.
The tragic history of Blutenburg Castle
Blutenburg looks back on a comparatively quiet history. As a medieval moated castle, it was first mentioned in writing in 1432. No bloody battles were fought here: Duke Albrecht III in particular was known as a hunting and country residence. The massive gatehouse, the massive defensive walls and the manor house still characterize the picturesque ensemble today. The late Gothic castle chapel dating back to 1497 is also impressive: it is one of the most beautiful late Gothic sacred buildings in southern Germany. The originally preserved interior even contains masterpieces by the painter Jan Polack.
But above all, Blutenburg Castle became famous for its dramatic love story: it served as a retreat for Duke Albrecht III and his famous lover Agnes Bernauer. As the daughter of a Bader from Augsburg, she was a woman from the lower classes. However, this could not deter the Duke and designated heir to the throne of the Duchy of Bavaria Munich from his love: The two married in secret. Duke Albrecht III’s father, however, saw this as a serious violation of the hierarchy of the estates in the Middle Ages. His attempts to dissuade his son from his mistress failed. He therefore resorted to other methods: On October 12, 1435, a young woman was drowned in the Danube near Straubing. Her name: Agnes Bernauer.
Because of this tragic romance, the castle is still called the “last real fairytale castle in Munich” by some. The tragic love between the two later inspired numerous artists. After the duke’s death, Blutenburg remained mostly in princely ownership, later served as a hunting lodge and, after several changes of ownership, was increasingly used for cultural purposes from the 18th century onwards. The tragic life and love story is still the basis for the Agnes Bernauer Festival today.
The Michael Ende Museum
The Blutenburg is not only famous for the princely romance. The Michael Ende Museum has been housed in the attic of the so-called book castle since 1998. Here you can immerse yourself completely in the life and work of the world-famous author. The exhibition not only presents numerous first editions in over 40 languages, but also typescripts, letters, personal pieces of furniture, private photos and curiosities from Michael Ende’s everyday life.
Anyone wandering through the display cases will find many objects from the author’s estate. These include his distinctive glasses, a slingshot from his childhood and rare illustrations. Michael Ende’s second wife Mariko Sato donated a large part of his estate to the International Youth Library, which laid the foundation for this small but fine museum. After the tragic story of the duke and duchess, anyone wanting an insight into the “never-ending story” is in just the right place at Blutenburg Castle.