Residenz Palace Museum – Wittelsbach Treasury

Founded in 1565 by Duke Albrecht, the Wittelsbach treasury has been open for public viewing since 1920. Housed in the 130 exhibition rooms of the palace museum, this collection is one of the most important of its kind in Europe, and among the finest in the world. The exhibition covers the late Graeco-Roman period, the Middle Ages (with exhibits such as the Ciborium of King Arnulf from around 890 and the Cross of Queen Gisela from 1006), the late Gothic and Renaissance periods, and the baroque, rococo and neoclassical eras. Also on display are treasures crafted from lead crystal, gems and ivory, ecclesiastical art, orders and insignia, exotic artwork, plus tableware and toilet sets made by the Nuremberg and Augsburg goldsmiths. The apartments, ceremonial halls and chapels once frequented by the rulers of Bavaria provide an excellent opportunity to see a large number of rooms in a variety of historical styles. Open daily, closed on 1 Jan., Shrove Tuesday, 24, 25 and 31 Dec., guided tours available.