Karlsplatz, Munich

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Karlsplatz, Munich

Karlsplatz, Munich

Karlsplatz, located in close proximity to the 14th-century Karlstor gate, stands as the second-largest square in Munich, trailing only behind Marienplatz. It is widely recognized by the local community as "Stachus."

This square came into existence under the directive of Elector Karl Theodor in 1791. It is believed that the moniker "Stachus" can be traced back to a former pub named "Beim Stachus," which was owned by Mathias Eustachius Föderl and once stood at this location prior to the square's construction. Alternatively, some theories propose that the name may have evolved from the word "Stachel," referring to the arrows used by marksmen who practiced in this area.

As for the Karlstor, an imposing Gothic-style gate, it was once an integral part of a substantial fortification. The architectural design of the Rondell buildings flanking the gate is credited to the renowned architect Gabriel von Seidl.

The primary pedestrian shopping district of Munich spans between Karlplatz and Marienplatz. Among the contemporary attractions at Stachus is a modern fountain, constructed in the 1970s, providing seating for shoppers and visitors to relax during the summer months. In winter, this area around the fountain transforms into an ice skating rink. On the west side of the square, one can find Kaufhof, the very first department store established after World War II. Below ground, there is an extensive shopping center, and Stachus Square serves as a central hub for Munich's tramway system.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Munich. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Karlsplatz on Map

Sight Name: Karlsplatz
Sight Location: Munich, Germany (See walking tours in Munich)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Munich, Germany

Create Your Own Walk in Munich

Create Your Own Walk in Munich

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Old Town Walking Tour

Old Town Walking Tour

The Old Town of Munich, sprawling on the west bank of the River Isar, is a treasure trove of architectural splendor and cultural heritage. Also known in German as Altstadt, this medieval area forms the historic core and cultural heart of the Bavarian capital. The entire Old Town is listed as a historical monument and is a living museum – “where the past harmonizes with the present in a grand...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Third Reich Munich Walking Tour

Third Reich Munich Walking Tour

In the first quarter of the 20th century, the capital of Bavaria, Munich, was ill-fated to become the birthplace of the National Socialist German Workers' Party (aka NSDAP or Nazi Party) and the site of its early activities. The city played a significant role in the rise and consolidation of power of the Nazi Party and, ultimately, the establishment of the Third Reich.

The Third Reich went...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Old Town Souvenir Shops

Old Town Souvenir Shops

"Collect moments, not things," wise men say. In reference to travel, this may be interpreted as the prevalence of experiences and memories over material gains. Still, when it comes to travel mementos, albeit material they are, memories and experiences are primarily what these little (or not so little) tokens are all about.

And it would be a pity to leave Munich without bringing home...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.5 Km or 0.9 Miles
Munich Introduction Walking Tour

Munich Introduction Walking Tour

Straddling the banks of the River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps, Bavaria’s capital Munich is home to centuries-old buildings and numerous attractions.

The city was first mentioned in 1158. Its name is usually interpreted as the Old/Middle High German term Munichen, which means "by the monks", deriving from the monks of the Benedictine order, who ran a monastery at the place that...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles

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