These gardens, known as the Hofgarten, were created in 1613 by order of Maximilian I, as an extension of the nearby royal palace. This is a French-style garden, which bursts into colour every spring, with beautifully arranged, symmetrical flowerbeds. At the centre stands the Temple of Diana, dedicated to the Roman goddess of the forest and wild animals. Atop the temple is a replica of a 16th-century bronze sculpture depicting Tellus Bavarica—a female allegory of the Bavarian land. The Hofgarten is a beloved spot among Munich locals, offering a peaceful green haven where people come to stroll, sit in the shade, or enjoy an impromptu game of pétanque—yes, you heard that right, the French game with metal balls and a surprising cult following far beyond France.