The Rathaus-Glockenspiel sits in the tower of Munich’s New Town Hall on Marienplatz. Its 32 life-size figures move to the sound of 43 bells, acting out the 1568 wedding of Duke Wilhelm V and Renata of Lorraine, followed by the coopers’ dance. The show is a good reason to pause in the square, while the building’s neo-Gothic façade is worth a closer look. You can also explore the town hall’s passages for free or take the lift up the tower for views across Munich.
The figures and the stories
The Rathaus-Glockenspiel is part of the tower of the New Town Hall, or Neues Rathaus, on Marienplatz. Its two levels of figures move to music played by 43 bells. The performance presents two episodes connected with Munich’s past.
The first depicts the 1568 marriage of Duke Wilhelm V to Renata of Lorraine. The second is the Schäfflertanz, or coopers’ dance. The show lasts around 15 minutes, so it is easy to fit into a stop at the square.
The New Town Hall and its tower
The neo-Gothic New Town Hall forms the backdrop to the clock and dominates Marienplatz. Take time to look over the façade before or after the performance. The building also has passages that you can explore for free.
For a wider view of Munich, take the lift up the town hall tower. The square itself is a busy place to pause, with shops and places to eat nearby. If you want a less crowded view of the clock show, go in the morning; December draws more people to Marienplatz.
Häufige Fragen
When does the Rathaus-Glockenspiel perform?
It performs at 11 a.m. and noon every day. There is an additional performance at 5 p.m. from March to October.
How long does the Glockenspiel show last?
The performance lasts about 15 minutes.
Is it free to see the Glockenspiel?
Watching the show from Marienplatz is free. Passages inside the New Town Hall can also be explored for free.
Can you go up the New Town Hall tower?
Yes. A lift takes you up the tower for views across Munich.
