Tucked within Munich’s Neues Rathaus, the Juristische Bibliothek is a breathtaking architectural treasure that’s well worth the effort to visit. But take note: it is not open for casual visitors. Entry is only permitted through a pre-booked guided tour, so be sure to plan ahead. The tour meets just outside the Tourist Information Center, located a few meters from the main entrance of the Neues Rathaus.
Our guide was outstanding, conducting the tour fluently in both German and English. She was knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about the library’s history and design. Once inside, we had ample time to take photographs. The reading room’s quiet grandeur did not disappoint. With its wrought-iron staircases, ornate woodwork, and book-lined walls stretching toward the ceiling, the setting felt almost cinematic, like a scene from a Wes Anderson film.
The tour lasted approximately 30 minutes and was well-paced and informative. It gave us a real appreciation for the building’s role in Munich’s cultural and legal history. If you have an interest in libraries, historical interiors, or simply enjoy stepping into another era, this elegant detour deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just be sure to book in advance, as access is not available without...
Read moreHad a not pleasant experience with a women, who is apparently the gate keeper there. We were just interested in a quick peak inside (no photos), she mentioned it was full (she opened the door and there were clearly open spots) and only for people that needed to work could go in. We so happened to also have work we need to do (my friend and I being scientist), she then changed the terms again and said it was only for people studying law. She told us to book a tour if we wanted to take pics, we told her again we didn't want to take pictures. i understand that it's a library and you don't want large amounrs of people taking pictures and disrupting others but there was no one else around and it would have taken less time to quickly open the door a crack than have this conversation with us. Either way, its really sad, I have been trying to get a quick peak into that library for almost a year and to work in that library would of been a dream. I understand it's extremely small but a quick peak inside would of been the highlight of my year. If you are able to go please do, the building in general is gorgeous but just be aware of a not so nice interaction you might have if you want to take a look at...
Read moreBeautiful library which exists first and foremost as a place to work and study! This is NOT a tourist attraction, hence is only open for such purposes for a mere 10 minutes per day.
Again, the point of this library is to act as a library, not as a tourist attraction. The expectation for all times outside of the 10 minutes for tourists is SILENCE! No mobile phones, no talking, no pictures, no bags - purely studying and reading. These rules are strictly and justly enforced, and rightly so!
Excellent atmosphere for studying and quietly working, greatly appreciated by those of us who come to do exactly that. Thank you to the the excellent staff for managing the...
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