Hofgarten

Overview

The Hofgarten is a serene Renaissance garden just north of the Residenz, anchored by the octagonal Diana Temple (1615). Its grid of paths is lined with linden trees and flanked by arcades sheltering open-air art exhibitions.

Highlights

• Diana Temple: An eight-sided pavilion with a bronze statue of Diana, used for tango dancing on summer evenings.
• Arcade frescoes: Historical paintings under the northern arcade depicting Bavarian royal history.
• Lunchtime escape: Office workers and visitors sprawl on the lawns—a calm contrast to adjacent Odeonsplatz.

History

Laid out in Italian style by Maximilian I around 1613, the Hofgarten was one of Munich's first formal public gardens. It connected the Residenz to the English Garden.

Visitor Tips

• Free entry: Always open, always free.
• Combine: Walk through from Odeonsplatz to the English Garden.
• Duration: 15–30 minutes.