Alter nördlicher Friedhof

The Alter Nördlicher Friedhof occupies a historic green space in Munich’s busy Maxvorstadt district. The city architect Arnold Zenetti designed this cemetery. It followed a rectangular plan with sixteen fields and arcaded vaults along the western wall. Those western vaults reflect the Campo Santo style. The site opened as Munich’s existing burial grounds could no longer accommodate the growing population. Burials later ended at this historic Munich cemetery. Air raids damaged the grounds, and remaining family graves preserve the cemetery’s layered history. Wilhelm Bauer is among the notable figures buried here. Hermann Lingg and Ludwig von der Tann-Rathsamhausen also connect this place with Munich’s past. Paths cross the grass beneath the surrounding urban setting. Runners use the paths, while sunbathers and readers occupy the open grassy areas. Grass fills the cemetery’s open central fields. Its western arcades provide the strongest architectural reminder of the former burial ground. Munich’s past stays visible throughout this historic cemetery.