In the Middle Ages the most important trade routes ended at the place "Schrannen (old german word for grain place)",
which was the name of the Marienplatz util 1854.
Examples of these trade routes are the salt route (Salzstrasse) which led from Salzburg to Augsburg and
the south north trade route from Italy. Hence, since the foundation of Munich (1158) Marienplatz formed
the mercantile centre of Munich. Here took place the different markets, like grain and salt market, fish market, wine market,
egg market, herbal market and farm market.
For example the fish fountain(Fischbrunnen) originates from the fish market.
The fact that the place is not covered with buildings till today is hearkened back to emperor Ludwig of Bavaria
who remitted a strict building ban for Marienplatz in 1315. Here knight's plays were organised in the Middle Ages and
uprisings, festivals and also executions took place.
Emblem of the whole north side of Marienplatz is the representative facade
of the new city hall.
In the eastern side there is the old city hall, in the centre of the
place is the Marien's column (Mariensäule).
S-Bahn (S1 - S8) to
Marienplatz
U-Bahn (U3, U6) to Marienplatz
Bus 52