Munich Frauenkirche 1945 7

Description

Munich Frauenkirche 1945; Photo; Licensed item; Original: 5740×4315; Photographer: Unknown;0 Licenseable; Rights: © Bleek/zb Media. The old town of Munich was heavily destroyed in 1945, as the city was severely hit by 74 Allied air raids during World War II. Particularly in 1944 and 1945, there were massive bombardments that left large parts of the historic old town in ruins.
Extent of Destruction
2Over 50% of the entire city was destroyed, with the rate being even higher in the city center.
2The old town was about 90% affected, including many significant historical buildings, churches, and squares.
2By the end of the war in 1945, Munich was a landscape of ruins, but many buildings were rebuilt later.
Important damaged or destroyed architectural monuments
Churches
2Frauenkirche (Munich Cathedral): Roof framework burned, towers remained intact.
2Theatinerkirche: Dome and facade severely damaged.
2Peterskirche (oldest church in Munich): Heavily hit, tower damaged.
2Asamkirche: Interior damaged, but not completely destroyed.
Castles & Residences
2Munich Residence: Almost completely burned out, only parts of the outer walls remained. Particularly affected were the Old Residence, the Treasury, and the Court Chapel.
2Nymphenburg Palace: Less damaged than other buildings, but some areas affected.
Town Halls & Squares
2Old Town Hall: Severe damage, tower remained intact.
2New Town Hall at Marienplatz: Parts of the building damaged, but not completely destroyed.
2Marienplatz: Many surrounding buildings damaged or destroyed.
2Viktualienmarkt: Large parts destroyed, later rebuilt.
Other significant buildings
2Feldherrnhalle: Facade damaged but remained intact.
2National Theatre: Almost completely destroyed.
2Bavarian State Library: Large parts burned, massive loss of historical documents.
The old town of Munich was one of the most heavily destroyed city centers in Germany. However, through reconstruction after 1945 – often with reconstructions of historical buildings – the original character of the city was partially preserved, even though modern elements have been introduced.