Owl and Justitia statue symbolizing wisdom and justice

Justizpalast

Justizpalast Munich Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Munich’s Maxvorstadt district, the Justizpalast (Palace of Justice) stands as a striking symbol of Bavaria’s judicial heritage and architectural grandeur. Completed in 1897, this Neo-Baroque masterpiece by Friedrich von Thiersch is not only a functioning courthouse but also a vital witness to pivotal events in German history, such as the White Rose trials during the Nazi era. With its towering 67-meter glass dome and richly decorated interiors, the Justizpalast attracts history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike. This comprehensive guide provides essential details on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions to help you plan an enriching visit. For additional information, refer to the Munich Travel website and the official Munich city guide.

Façade of Munich train station with people and cars in front

Close-up of obelisks at the south facade of Justizpalast Munich

Detail of the Justice Palace in Munich featuring two stone obelisks on the side facing Karlsplatz with two additional obelisks on the right side serving decorative purposes

Historical Background

Origins and Construction

The decision to build the Justizpalast stemmed from Munich’s growing administrative needs in the late 19th century. The chosen site, Herzoggarten, is centrally located between the Hauptbahnhof (main train station) and Karlsplatz (Stachus), adjacent to the Old Botanical Gardens (muenchen.travel). Construction began in 1891 under Prince Regent Luitpold, with Friedrich von Thiersch as the architect. The building, completed in 1897, epitomizes Neo-Baroque grandeur, stretching 138 meters in length and 80 meters in depth, with a 19-by-29-meter central hall crowned by a 67-meter glass dome (wikipedia).

Architectural Features and Symbolism

The façade of the Justizpalast features a prominent statue of Justitia, the Roman goddess of justice, flanked by allegorical representations of Innocence and Vice. The interior boasts a grand staircase, expansive corridors, and nearly 500 rooms across four floors. The central hall, bathed in natural light from the glass dome, forms the symbolic heart of the building. The elaborate stonework and high ceilings reflect the dignity and authority of the Bavarian judiciary, marking Munich’s turn-of-the-century urban transformation (munich.travel).

Expansion: The New Justizpalast

By the early 1900s, a new building was necessary to accommodate Munich’s expanding legal system. The New Justizpalast, designed again by Thiersch, was constructed in 1905 in a contrasting Brick Gothic style. It now houses the Bavarian Constitutional Court and the Higher Regional Court, while the original building remains the seat of the Bavarian Ministry of Justice and Munich I Regional Court (wikipedia).

Role in Judicial History

Since its opening, the Justizpalast has been the epicenter of major legal proceedings in Bavaria and Germany.

The White Rose Trials

In 1943, Room 253 hosted the infamous People’s Court trials against members of the White Rose resistance group, including Hans and Sophie Scholl. These courageous students opposed the Nazi regime and paid for their resistance with their lives (munich.travel). Room 253 is now a memorial and exhibition space, chronicling the destruction of constitutional democracy under National Socialism (muenchen.travel).

Other Notable Trials

The Justizpalast has also been the venue for high-profile cases, such as the Vera Brühne trial in 1962 and the Uli Hoeneß trial in 2014, showcasing its ongoing relevance in German legal history (de.wikipedia).

Visiting the Justizpalast Munich

Location and Access

The Justizpalast is located at Prielmayerstraße 7, 80335 Munich, between Karlsplatz (Stachus) and the Hauptbahnhof. It is easily accessible by public transport, including U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and tram lines (muenchen.de).

Visiting Hours

Guided tours are typically available Monday to Friday, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, but schedules may vary due to ongoing court sessions or special events. Confirm current tour times and availability on the Munich Travel website.

Tickets and Reservations

Entry: General admission to public areas is free, but access to key spaces (such as the Lichthalle and courtroom 253) is possible only via guided tour.
Booking: Guided tours must be booked in advance via the Munich tourism website or at the Tourist Information office at Marienplatz 8. Tickets are not sold on-site.
Languages: Most tours are in German; English tours are offered occasionally.

Entry Procedures and Security

Arrive at least 10 minutes early for airport-style security screenings. Bring a valid photo ID and your booking confirmation for guided tours.

Accessibility

The building is partially accessible to visitors with mobility impairments. Contact the tourism office ahead of your visit to arrange specific accommodations. Visitors with disabilities carrying the “B” designation may bring a companion free of charge with prior notice (muenchen.travel).

Facilities and Services

Restrooms are available on-site.
No cloakroom or luggage storage—travel light.
No café or shop inside, but ample options nearby.
Photography: Permitted in public areas; restricted in courtrooms and during proceedings.

What to See at the Justizpalast

Architectural Highlights

Lichthalle and Glass Dome: The central atrium, illuminated by the 67-meter dome, is a stunning backdrop for photos.
Grand Staircase: Features ornate railings and sculptural details.
Law Library (Juristische Bibliothek): An Art Nouveau gem with intricate ironwork and stained glass.
Allegorical Murals and Sculptures: Symbolic representations of justice and civic virtue.

Historical and Cultural Exhibitions

Courtroom 253 and White Rose Memorial: A moving exhibition on the White Rose resistance and the misuse of justice during the Nazi era.
Gallery of Justice Ministers: Profiles key figures in Bavarian judicial history.

Special Events

Temporary exhibitions and public events are occasionally held in the Lichthalle. Check official sites for announcements and dates.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Reserve tickets online in advance; no on-site sales (muenchen.travel).
Arrive early for security screening.
Dress respectfully due to the building’s official status.
Carry cash for small expenses, though cards are widely accepted (Lonely Planet).
Validate public transport tickets to avoid fines (Lonely Planet).
Check for English tours when booking.
Photography: Ask permission before taking photos, especially in restricted areas.

Nearby Munich Attractions

After your visit, explore:

Old Botanical Gardens: Adjacent green oasis.
Karlsplatz (Stachus): Major square with shopping and dining.
Marienplatz: Famous for the Glockenspiel and New Town Hall.
Pinakothek Museums: Renowned art collections nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the Justizpalast without a tour?
A: General access is limited; guided tours must be booked for key areas.

Q: Are English-language tours available?
A: Occasionally, based on demand. Check when booking.

Q: Is the Justizpalast wheelchair accessible?
A: Partial accessibility; contact the tourism office for arrangements.

Q: Can I attend a live court session?
A: Yes, but space is limited and subject to court schedules.

Q: How long do tours last?
A: Guided tours typically last 90–120 minutes.

Conclusion

The Justizpalast Munich is a remarkable blend of architectural grandeur, judicial history, and civic importance. It invites visitors to reflect on the evolution of justice and democracy in Bavaria, from its Neo-Baroque splendor to its role as a memorial for resistance against oppression. Centrally located and surrounded by cultural landmarks, the Justizpalast is a must-see for anyone interested in Munich’s rich heritage.

For current visiting hours, tour availability, and ticket bookings, consult the Munich tourism website or muenchen.de.

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