Munich’s New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) is more than a seat of government it’s a soaring testament to civic pride, imagination and the enduring allure of Gothic Revival architecture. Rising dramatically from the shadows over Marienplatz, this neo-Gothic masterpiece invites visitors into a world where myth, history and artistry converge.

Due to the city’s growing administrative needs construction began in 1867. The commission was awarded to Georg von Hauberrisser, a visionary architect (who was just 24 years old) and he was tasked with designing a building that would reflect Munich’s rising prominence on the world stage. The outcome was an extraordinary structure inspired by medieval Gothic grandeur, complete with spires, stained glass and a host of stone-carved gargoyles. The final flourish came in 1909 with the completion of its 85-meter tower, including the world-famous Glockenspiel.

The soot-darkened limestone façade is an astonishing spectacle, looming over Marienplatz more like a cathedral than a civic building. Look closely and you’ll find the Wittelsbach dynasty immortalized in stone, alongside saints, sinners, dukes, and mythical creatures. On the corner of Weinstraße a large-scale dragon clutches the stonework with open jaws like an architectural guardian frozen mid roar. Gargoyles and other beasts, coil around the structure, which help to animate the building with a sense of living drama.

Each day at 11:00, 12:00, and 17:00 (March to October), the Glockenspiel comes alive in a whimsical 15-minute performance of bells and figures. Comprising 43 bells and 32 life-sized characters, it re-enacts two tales from Munich’s past. The upper tier depicts the story of the wedding of Duke Wilhelm V and Renata of Lorraine, even showcasing a jousting tournament. Whereas below the Schäfflertanz (Coopers’ Dance) unfolds which was a tradition born from the plague of 1517, when barrel-makers danced through the streets to lift spirits and restore optimism. As the bells echo across the square, the whole city seems to stand still, honouring its history and national pride.

Step through the arched arcade and discover the Prunkhof, a secluded courtyard wrapped in soaring turrets, balconies and stained glass. Some of my favourite architectural flourishes were the small gargoyles perched on top of waterspouts which are thought to ward off the evil and act as spiritual guardians with their eternal gaze. Nestled within the courtyard is the Ratskeller, a traditional Bavarian restaurant where you can dine in the shadows of Gothic splendour.

Inside, the theatre continues throughout the dark and moody interiors. Wander freely through the labyrinth of vaulted corridors, winding staircases, mosaic floors and reverent stained-glass windows which make you feel like you are on the set of a medieval drama frozen in time. Here I found the late 19th-century stained-glass panels depicting iconic German landmarks particularly captivating. Showcasing stylised locations such as the beautiful Cologne cathedral, Lübeck’s Holstentor and Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s, they create a visual pilgrimage through the nation’s architectural heritage. In addition, one pane particularly caught my eye, showing a sacred lady wielding an axe - so keep your eyes peeled for that one!

Tucked within the Town Hall you can also visit Munich’s Law Library (Juristische Bibliothek), an exquisite Art Nouveau treasure. Although to visit you must book one of the tours that take place on select evenings and weekends. This is because the library is still operational during the day when it  is used by many legal scholars and students. This enchanting space evokes a forest of knowledge, as wrought iron spiral staircases act like tree trunks with carved balustrades leading up to the different layers of the library that are filled with dark wood shelves and vintage tombs. Soft shadows wash over the reading room whilst the intricate leaf shaped lamps bloom into delicate flowers, creating a glow of cinematic warmth. Remember to book ahead and secure a spot on one of the tours here.

If time allows, there’s also the option to take the elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views across Munich and on clear days, if you’re lucky, all the way to the Alps! It’s the perfect finale to a journey through one of Europe’s most enchanting civic landmarks.