Theatinerkirche

Overview

The Theatinerkirche (St. Cajetan's) dominates Odeonsplatz with its mustard-yellow Italian Baroque facade and twin towers. Inside, the white stucco interior is a masterclass in restrained High Baroque elegance—no gilding, just pure sculptural plasterwork.

Highlights

• Stucco ceiling: Elaborate white plasterwork by Giovanni Antonio Viscardi covering every vault.
• Royal crypt: Burial place of several Wittelsbach rulers, including King Maximilian II.
• Facade: Modelled on Sant'Andrea della Valle in Rome, completed by Cuvilliés the Elder in 1768.

History

Commissioned in 1663 by Elector Ferdinand Maria and his wife Henriette Adelaide to celebrate the birth of their heir, Max Emanuel. Italian architects Agostino Barelli and Enrico Zuccalli designed the church in Roman High Baroque style.

Visitor Tips

• Free entry: Open daily.
• Odeonsplatz: Step outside for the classic view down Ludwigstraße towards the Siegestor.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.