Introduction
Nestled on Herrenwörth Island in Lake Chiemsee, Herrenchiemsee Palace stands as one of Bavaria's most magnificent royal residences. This luxurious 19th-century palace was commissioned by King Ludwig II, often referred to as the "Fairytale King" or "Moon King," who designed it as a homage to France's Palace of Versailles and King Louis XIV, whom he deeply admired. The palace is often called the "Bavarian Versailles" due to its striking similarities to the French original, though it was never intended to be a perfectly exact replica. Unlike his medieval-themed Neuschwanstein Castle, Herrenchiemsee represents Ludwig's fascination with the Baroque era and absolute monarchy.
Interesting Facts about Herrenchiemsee Palace
- Herrenchiemsee Palace, modelled after France's Palace of Versailles, is situated on a private 230-hectare island in Lake Chiemsee.
- Commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1873, the palace remained unfinished at the time of his mysterious death in 1886.
- The palace's monumental staircase features an innovative iron-and-glass roof, showcasing 19th-century technological advancements.
- Ludwig II incorporated a mechanical "Tischlein-deck-dich" dining table that could be lowered to allow private meals without servants.
- Designed as a "Temple of Fame" for Louis XIV, Herrenchiemsee's interiors surpass Versailles in opulence, featuring gold leaf and lavish textiles.
- The palace's park, inspired by Versailles' gardens, includes grand fountains that operate daily during summer months.
- Visitors can reach the island via a scenic ferry ride from Prien am Chiemsee, followed by a horse-drawn carriage or forest walk.
- Herrenchiemsee was one of three extravagant palaces built by Ludwig II, alongside Neuschwanstein and Linderhof.
- The Hall of Mirrors at Herrenchiemsee is longer and more ornate than its counterpart in Versailles, illuminated by 33 crystal chandeliers.
- A museum within the palace displays Ludwig II's state robes, personal artefacts, and documents chronicling his reign and architectural legacy.
History
The history of Herrenchiemsee dates back to the 8th century when a Benedictine abbey was established on Herreninsel. By the 17th century, this had evolved into a Baroque monastery complex governed by the Rule of St Augustine. Between 1645 and 1730, the monastery was expanded into an impressive set of Baroque buildings featuring four wings enclosing a large, almost rectangular courtyard with an idyllic rose garden. This original structure is now known as the Augustinian Monastery or Old Palace.
In 1873, King Ludwig II acquired Herreninsel after local communities petitioned him to protect the island from deforestation. This brought the island to the monarch's attention, and he decided it would be the perfect location for his "Temple of Fame" in honour of Louis XIV. Construction of the New Palace began in 1878 based on plans by architect Georg von Dollmann, who was instructed to study the original Versailles and even reconstruct rooms that no longer existed in France. The palace was the 14th version of the design and was shaped in a 'W' with wings flanking the central edifice.
Tragically, when Ludwig II died in 1886, the palace remained incomplete. Only 20 of the planned 70 rooms had been finished on the ground floor, and construction was discontinued with 50 rooms still incomplete. Despite its unfinished state, Herrenchiemsee stands as a testament to Ludwig's grand vision and remains one of the most splendid royal residences in Europe.
The New Palace of Herrenchiemsee represents the pinnacle of 19th-century interior design, with rooms that are even more splendidly furnished than those in Versailles. The palace was never intended to serve as a seat of government or royal court but rather as a private retreat for the reclusive king and a monument to absolute monarchy. Unlike the original Versailles, which lacked modern amenities, Herrenchiemsee was equipped with technological advancements including toilets, running water, and central heating, as well as a large heated bathtub, showcasing Ludwig's forward-thinking approach to comfort and convenience.
Description
The most striking feature of the palace is the monumental staircase, constructed under a roof of iron and glass. The use of materials such as iron was relatively novel for castles of that period, demonstrating Ludwig's embrace of modern building techniques. The grand staircase leads visitors to the upper floor, where they can marvel at the opulent state rooms characterised by high ceilings and a predominance of gold decoration that creates an atmosphere of imperial majesty.
Perhaps the most impressive room in the palace is the Great Hall of Mirrors, a magnificent recreation of its Versailles counterpart. Like the original, it features 17 arches, but the window niches at Herrenchiemsee are slightly wider, making its central façade a few metres wider than Versailles. The ceiling is adorned with 25 frescoes depicting Louis XIV at his most glorious, further emphasising Ludwig's admiration for the Sun King. On either side of the Hall of Mirrors are the Hall of Peace and the Hall of War, each with six windows, maintaining the symmetrical design of the original.
The State Bedroom is another highlight of the palace tour, showcasing extraordinary craftsmanship and luxury. The room features an elaborate canopied bed and rich textiles that exemplify the "perfection" of historic styles that was an artistic ideal of the nineteenth century. No expense was spared in creating this sumptuous chamber, which stands as one of the most opulent royal bedrooms in Europe.
The dining room features a technological marvel known as the "Wishing Table" (Tischlein-deck-dich), an elevator table that could be mechanically lowered through the floor, allowing the king to dine without being served by staff. This ingenious device, inspired by Grimm's fairy tales, reflects Ludwig's love of privacy and technological innovation. The room is also home to the world's largest Meissen porcelain chandelier, part of a porcelain collection that is unrivalled in its comprehensiveness and quality.
Park & Gardens
The park surrounding Herrenchiemsee Palace was designed by Court Garden Director Carl von Effner to mirror the gardens of Versailles. As with the palace itself, King Ludwig II wanted the park modelled on the Versailles complex without being an exact copy. The plans focused primarily on the areas that could be seen from the main rooms of the central palace tract – the State Bedroom and the Hall of Mirrors. When Ludwig died, only the central axis with its splendid fountains had been completed, though the original plan was for the park to cover a large part of the island.
The main parterre on the west side features meticulously maintained hedges, geometrically shaped lawns, and gravel ornamentation, ending in a canal that leads to the lake. The Latona Fountain serves as a central focal point in the garden. According to Greek mythology, Latona was one of Zeus' mistresses who fled to a village with her children, Artemis and Apollo. When the villagers refused them water from the lake, they were supposedly turned into frogs – a story depicted in the fountain's design.
Flanking the central Latona Fountain are two large side fountains topped with statues of Pheme and Fortuna, inspired by a Spanish palace. These fountains, along with the Fama and Fortuna Fountains, have been in operation again since 1994 following comprehensive renovation. The fountains operate from May to early October, putting on spectacular water displays that enhance the grandeur of the garden setting.
Beyond the formal gardens, the 230-hectare island has been preserved as a natural park that takes approximately two hours to circumnavigate on foot. The path is bordered by dense woodland, meadows with grazing animals, and orchards, offering splendid views of the Alps. At the northernmost tip of the island stands the Lake Chapel of the Holy Cross, dating from the 17th century, which is easily accessible from the boat pier.
King Ludwig II Museum
The King Ludwig II Museum is housed in twelve modernised rooms on the ground floor of the south wing of the New Palace and was opened in 1987. This fascinating museum documents the story of Ludwig II's life, from his birth to his tragic early death, through an impressive collection of painted portraits, busts, historical photographs, and original state robes. Personal items such as a christening robe and death mask provide intimate glimpses into the king's life and legacy.
The museum showcases Ludwig II as an important patron of the arts, displaying selected art objects from his "royal castles" alongside models and plans of unrealised projects that bear witness to his ambitious architectural visions. Visitors can see that Herrenchiemsee, despite its grandeur, was not his most ambitious project. The museum also features original state furniture from the destroyed royal apartment in the Munich Residence and from the first bedroom of Linderhof Palace, offering a rare opportunity to see these historical treasures.
A significant portion of the museum is dedicated to Ludwig's friendship with the composer Richard Wagner, whom the king patronised. This section includes plans and models for a festival theatre in Munich that was never built, as well as numerous stage models of original Wagner performances. Through paintings, written documents, and theatre designs, visitors can gain insight into this important artistic relationship that had a profound impact on both men's legacies.
The elaborately handcrafted items commissioned by the king and displayed in the museum document the European standing of Munich art in the second half of the nineteenth century. These exquisite pieces demonstrate not only Ludwig's refined taste but also his commitment to supporting local craftsmen and artists, contributing significantly to Bavaria's cultural heritage.
Augustinian Monastery
The Augustinian Monastery, now known as the Old Palace, represents an earlier chapter in Herrenchiemsee's history. This Baroque complex dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries and features four wings enclosing a large courtyard with a beautiful rose garden. Several magnificently decorated rooms have been preserved from this period, offering visitors a glimpse into monastic life and the splendour of Baroque architecture.
The Imperial Hall, which served in the 18th century as a festival and dining hall, showcases the opulence of Baroque design with its ornate decoration and impressive proportions. The Garden Room with the Bedroom Cabinet was specially furnished for high-ranking guests, reflecting the monastery's importance as a place of hospitality and cultural exchange. Perhaps most impressive is the Library Hall, designed by the renowned artist Johann Baptist Zimmerman, whose work exemplifies the artistic achievements of the Baroque period in Bavaria.
When King Ludwig II acquired Herreninsel in 1873, he had living quarters furnished for himself in the monastery, which then became known as the 'Old Palace'. He stayed here whenever he came to inspect the building work on the New Palace. Visitors can tour King Ludwig II's former bedroom in the monastery, offering insight into the king's more modest accommodations compared to the lavish chambers he designed for his new palace.
The historic court kitchen in the Old Palace is another point of interest, showcasing the culinary facilities that would have served the king during his stays on the island. This practical space provides a contrast to the ceremonial grandeur of the New Palace and helps complete the picture of daily life at Herrenchiemsee during Ludwig's time.
The Augustinian Monastery houses several museums that add depth to the Herrenchiemsee experience. The museum "Paving the way for freedom and democracy – the 1948 Constitution Convention of Herrenchiemsee" commemorates a significant moment in German history when the monastery served as the venue for the Constitutional Convention that laid the groundwork for the Federal Republic of Germany's constitution. This exhibition connects the island's royal past with its important role in shaping modern German democracy.
Maler am Chiemsee Gallery
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Maler am Chiemsee Gallery located in the Convent Wing, which displays numerous masterpieces by artists who worked around Lake Chiemsee. This collection showcases the natural beauty of the region through the eyes of talented painters who were inspired by its landscapes and light, offering a different perspective on the cultural significance of Herrenchiemsee beyond its royal connections.
The Julius Exter Gallery in the Prelacy Wing provides an impressive overview of all the creative periods during the lifetime of Julius Exter (1863-1939), an important painter who was dubbed in his day the 'prince of colour'. This dedicated space allows visitors to appreciate the passionate artistry of Exter, whose work represents a significant contribution to German painting in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Island Cathedral
The former monastery church, known as the Island Cathedral, has an interesting history of its own. After secularisation in 1807, it was converted into a brewery building, representing the practical repurposing of religious structures that occurred throughout Bavaria during this period. Today, the Island Cathedral can only be visited as part of a guided tour, offering visitors a unique perspective on the adaptive reuse of sacred architecture.
Technological innovations at Herrenchiemsee
Beyond the architectural splendour of Herrenchiemsee, King Ludwig II left a legacy of technological innovation that is often overlooked. The king was a visionary who was ahead of his time in many ways, and his forward-thinking approach is reflected in numerous elements of his castles. At Herrenchiemsee, this includes advanced systems for heating both the water and the interior rooms, as well as mechanical devices like the "Wishing Table" and chandeliers in the magnificent Mirrored Hall that could be lowered for maintenance.
Ludwig's technical playfulness extended beyond his building projects. He conceived plans for a flying machine called the Pfauenwagen, with which he hoped to soar over Lake Alpsee near Hohenschwangau Castle. Although this particular dream was thwarted due to technical difficulties, it demonstrates his imaginative approach to technology. More successfully, he commissioned the gilded royal sleigh, which became the first vehicle in the world to be fitted with a battery-powered light bulb – a true innovation for its time.
The king's patronage of technology included founding the Polytechnikum in Munich, which later evolved into the Technical University of Munich, one of Germany's most prestigious institutions. Through his building projects, which were very modern for their time, Ludwig supported the development of electrical engineering and other technical fields. His specific ideas and willingness to embrace the latest technology to realise his visions mark him as a progressive monarch despite his romantic attachment to past eras.
This combination of historical reverence and technological innovation makes Herrenchiemsee not just a monument to absolute monarchy but also a testament to the forward-thinking aspects of Ludwig's reign. The palace stands as a bridge between past and future, blending Baroque aesthetics with modern engineering in a way that was characteristic of the king's unique approach to royal patronage.
Exploring Lake Chiemsee
Visiting Herrenchiemsee involves more than just touring the palace – it's an island adventure that begins with a boat journey across Lake Chiemsee. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the surrounding Bavarian countryside and the Alps in the distance, setting the stage for the historical experience to come. Upon arriving at Herreninsel, visitors can either enjoy a leisurely 15-20 minute walk through the island's natural landscape to reach the palace or take a horse-drawn carriage for a more traditional approach that echoes how visitors would have arrived in Ludwig's time.
The island itself is car-free, creating a peaceful atmosphere that allows visitors to step back in time and experience the natural beauty that attracted King Ludwig II to this location. The 230-hectare island invites exploration beyond the formal palace grounds, with paths winding through dense woodland, peaceful meadows where animals graze, and orchards that change with the seasons. These natural areas provide a refreshing contrast to the meticulously designed formal gardens and offer opportunities for quiet reflection away from the grandeur of the palace.
For those interested in extending their visit, the nearby Fraueninsel (Women's Island) offers another dimension to the Chiemsee experience. This smaller island features winding paths past romantic fishermen's cottages and artists' houses, as well as the 1,200-year-old Frauenwörth convent. Local fishermen sell freshly smoked Chiemsee whitefish and other specialities, adding a culinary element to the cultural and historical exploration of the area.
The combination of natural beauty, historical architecture, and cultural significance makes a visit to Herrenchiemsee a multifaceted experience that appeals to a wide range of interests. Whether admiring the opulent interiors of the New Palace, contemplating the Baroque elegance of the Augustinian Monastery, exploring the museums, or simply enjoying the island's tranquil landscapes, visitors to Herrenchiemsee are treated to a rich tapestry of Bavarian heritage set in an idyllic lake environment.
Getting There
To reach Herrenchiemsee Palace, located on Herreninsel in Lake Chiemsee in southern Bavaria, you'll need to take a ferry from the mainland. The most common departure point is Prien am Chiemsee, which is approximately one hour from Munich by train. During summer, the Chiemsee railway runs from Prien station directly to Prien/Stock harbour, or you can walk about 30 minutes to reach the harbour. Ferries run regularly to Herreninsel island. Once on the island, you can either enjoy a 20-minute walk to the palace or take a horse-drawn carriage for 5 euros one-way (2 euros for children aged 5-14), which operates from mid-April to October, weather permitting. The palace can only be visited through guided tours, which cost a separate fee. It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance through the online ticket shop to avoid long waiting times, though a contingent of tickets is also available on-site for spontaneous visitors.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Herrenchiemsee Palace is during the spring and summer months, from April to October. During this period, the palace offers extended opening hours, allowing visitors to explore its grand interiors and beautifully manicured gardens to the fullest. The warmer weather also makes the scenic boat trip across Lake Chiemsee and the leisurely walk or horse-drawn carriage ride through the island's woods particularly enjoyable. Additionally, the summer season often features classical concerts in the palace's Hall of Mirrors, adding an extra layer of cultural richness to your visit. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, visiting during the shoulder season can be a good alternative, though some amenities like the carriage rides may not be available.
