The Olympic Park Munich - Built for the 1972 Olympic Games
The Munich Olympic Park is far more than just a relic of the 1972 Olympic Games - it is a living symbol of architectural mastery, timeless modernity and the sporting enthusiasm that characterizes Munich.
The XX. Olympic Games 1972 marked a decisive turning point in Munich's history. It was a huge investment and innovation drive that affected the entire city at the time. The expansion of the underground and suburban railroad systems, a huge building boom and ultimately the courageous decision by the mayor and city council to implement a very unusual architectural design are evidence of these far-sighted decisions, from which Munich still benefits today.
Then as now, the Olympic Park continued to impress the world with its pioneering futuristic architecture and unprecedented design. The transparent tent roof constructions designed by the architectural firm Behnisch & Partner and co-developed by Frei Otto, which span the Olympic Stadium, the Olympic Hall and the swimming stadium, defied many expectations and were groundbreaking in architecture. They are still admired worldwide today. The radiance of the time led to other extraordinary buildings nearby, such as the famous BMW headquarters, the BMW Museum and, in later years, BMW Welt. To this day, they remain attractive attractions for architecture, technology and design enthusiasts from all over the world.
An oasis of diversity and activity
Since the Olympic Games, the Olympic Park has developed into a versatile center for sport, culture and leisure. The Olympic Stadium, where unforgettable sporting history was made during the Olympics, now hosts concerts and major events in what is still an incredible setting. World stars such as Michael Jackson, Elton John, the Rolling Stones, U2 and Beyoncé have performed here in front of thousands of enthusiastic fans.
The Olympic Hall is the venue for numerous sporting events, trade fairs and show acts. From ice hockey matches to tennis and tournament events to international concerts - world stars come here to play.
A center for leisure, recreation, art and culture
The Olympic Park is not only a venue for major events, but also a popular recreational area for the people of Munich. The Olympic Lake invites you to go pedal boating, while extensive green spaces and paths offer ideal conditions for walking, jogging or cycling. The Olympiaberg, an artificial hill made of rubble and garbage, offers an impressive view over the city and is a popular meeting place for sunsets and picnics.
The beautifully landscaped Olympiapark with its Olympic Lake is a cultural center with numerous sporting and cultural events such as the Summer Festival in the Park, the Tollwood Festival and open-air cinema evenings. The popular flea market in the "Parkharfe" also takes place here every Friday and Saturday. Sometimes it is canceled due to major events or concerts, so be sure to check the website before you go!
A visit to the Olympic Tower, Munich's tallest building at 291 m, with its sensational revolving restaurant is definitely worthwhile for the view over the city as far as Bavaria and the Alps. Incidentally, there was also a rock museum up there until 2021. Unfortunately, the tower is closed until 2026 due to renovation work.
Conclusion
The Olympic Park Munich is a unique location, the buildings are embedded in a beautiful park. A vibrant center for sport, culture and leisure is being developed here. Its impressive architecture, its versatile use and its importance for the city make it an indispensable part of Munich life. Visit the Olympic Park and experience the dynamic mix of history, innovation and cultural diversity that makes Munich so special.