The Walhalla Temple is among the most significant national monuments erected in Germany during the 19th century. Conceived by Ludwig I of Bavaria in 1807, the then crown prince had a vision to commemorate noteworthy Germans from all walks of life. He ordered sculptors to make the busts that were placed inside the temple upon its unveiling in 1842. Visit Walhalla Temple today to admire its architectural grandeur, its hall of fame and sweeping views.
Ludwig commissioned Bavarian court architect Leo von Klenze to design the temple, which displays similarities to the Parthenon of Athens. It sits on a multitiered stone base and is reachable via ceremonial staircases.
A colonnade made up of 46 huge Doric-style columns wraps around the temple. Study the friezes on the northern and southern pediments, which portray the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest and 1815 creation of the German Federation, respectively.
Along the walls of the main hall are the busts of exemplary historical figures, including emperor Otto the Great, painter Anthony Van Dyck, writer Goethe and composer Ludwig van Beethoven. The original 96 busts, chosen by Ludwig I and his advisors, are positioned in chronological order of death.
A statue of Ludwig I presides over the hall and friezes depicting the evolution of the Germanic people adorn the upper walls. There are also plaques for people, such as tribal chieftain Arminius, whose genuine appearance is unknown.
Stand beneath the temple’s southern colonnade or sit on the steps and enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside. Watch as trees reflect in the waters of the Danube and see riverboats cruise by.
Walhalla Temple is open daily, except for select public holidays, and there’s an admission fee. Get here by driving for 20 minutes from central Regensburg and leave your car in the metered parking lot. Several public bus lines travel to Donaustauf Walhallastrasse stop, from where it’s a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, ride a Danube pleasure boat from Regensburg to Schiffsanlegestelle Walhalla pier and then continue on foot.