Typically Munich!

The exhibition presents, in five chronological sections, Munich’s defining features, and explores how long they have been viewed as typical, and above all why they are inextricably associated with the city. Over 400 exhibits trace the trials and tribulations of a city which – rightly or wrongly – is viewed by many people as one of their favorite places in the world. The exhibits chart how the city of Munich began to forge an identity of its own, relatively late in its history, following its seven-hundredth anniversary in 1858. They also demonstrate why words such as "city of art and beer" have become so contentious here. They also chronicle the cultural upheavals around 1900, the city’s role during the National Socialist period, and its rebirth as West Germany's "secret capital" during the country's "economic miracle." The residents – and indeed many visitors – all have very strong views on this city. Our “Migration Moves the City” research and collection project and its installations are a welcome addition to our “Typically Munich!” permanent exhibition and help trace the multifaceted history of migration in the city and made it what it is today. They disrupt the chronology of the exhibition and interrogate the way it has chosen to portray the city’s past.