Isartor Gate

In front of you stands one of the historic gateways into Munich’s old town. Back in the Middle Ages, this gate was part of the city’s defensive walls, built to protect Munich from enemy attacks. This is the Isartor Gate, named for its proximity to the River Isar. It was constructed in 1337 and served as the eastern entrance to the city. It owes its survival in the 19th century to King Ludwig I of Bavaria, who saved it from demolition. During the restoration, German painter Bernhard von Neher added the striking frescoes above the three arches. They depict the triumphant return of Emperor Louis after the bloody Battle of Mühldorf in 1322. Although the Isartor Gate was heavily damaged during the Second World War, it has been restored to reflect its original appearance. Today, its towers house the Valentin Karlstadt Museum, dedicated to the life and work of Karl Valentin, a beloved Munich comedian.