Chain of Children Clearing Debris in Munich 1945-2

Description

Chain of Children Clearing Debris in Munich 1945-2 The old town of Munich was heavily destroyed in 1945, as the city was severely hit by 74 allied air raids during the Second World War. Particularly in the years 1944 and 1945, there were massive bombardments that reduced large parts of the historical old town to rubble.
Extent of Destruction
Over 50% of the entire city was destroyed, with an even higher rate in the city center.
Approximately 90% of the old town was affected, including many significant historical buildings, churches, and squares.
At the end of the war in 1945, Munich was a landscape of ruins, but many buildings were later rebuilt.
Key damaged or destroyed landmarks
Churches
Frauenkirche (Munich Cathedral): Roof structure burned, towers remained intact.
Theatine Church: Dome and facade heavily damaged.
Peterskirche (Oldest Church in Munich): Severely hit, tower damaged.
Asam Church: Interior damaged but not completely destroyed.
Castles & Residences
Munich Residence: Almost entirely burned out, only parts of the outer walls stood. Especially affected were the Old Residence, the Treasury, and the Court Chapel.
Nymphenburg Palace: Less damaged than other buildings, but some areas affected.
Town Hall & Squares
Old Town Hall: Severe damage, tower remained intact.
New Town Hall at Marienplatz: Parts of the building damaged but not completely destroyed.
Marienplatz: Many surrounding buildings damaged or destroyed.
Viktualienmarkt: Large parts destroyed, later rebuilt.
Other Significant Buildings
Feldherrnhalle: Facade damaged but remained intact.
National Theater: Almost completely destroyed.
Bavarian State Library: Large parts burned, a huge loss of historical documents.
The old town of Munich was one of the most heavily destroyed city centers in Germany. However, the reconstruction after 1945 – often with reconstructions of historical buildings – preserved the original character of the city to some extent, although modern elements have been integrated.