Theatinerkirche

A part of Italy in Munich. This was one of the times when I was glad to have my wide angle lens with me. I bought it just for moments like this and was rewarded many times over.



Never having been to Italy, this was my first introduction to Italian high-baroque style and I was suitably impressed. The interior was rich with stucco ornaments, which stood out more because of the stark whiteness of the walls.



The atmosphere was respectfully silent; we were in a church after all and the priest and fellow worshipers were getting ready to celebrate mass. The tourists, including myself, were trying their best to enjoy the view without disturbing the congregation.



I left the church when the priest began the mass to meet my friends who were waiting outside for me. The facade of the church was under construction and was covered by this amusing huge advertisement sponsored by Nike for Bayern Munich with the caption "Bavaria has a King again". I am not a huge fan of football but I am assuming that the player who was dressed as a king must have been really good (Franck Ribéry). But it was really strange to see a church and a big commercial company hand in hand.



So while I was waiting for the mass the end, I went strolling in Hofgarten which was nearby. The weather was excellent, the sky was bright blue and everybody was walking about happily, enjoying the warmth of a sunny day.



At the center of the garden was a pavilion for the goddess Diana where street musicians will perform. I love the light and shadows that were cast upon its floor by the afternoon sunlight.



The Residenz was also connected to this garden.



After walking for a bit, I decided to head back to the church to take a closer look at the altar and the surrounding area. Impressive, isn't it? High above was the dome lit by the afternoon sun.



Prayers, hopes and wishes flickering away in this little corner of the church. It was beautiful and somehow calming. After having looked my fill, I left the striking yellow church and continued on my journey down Ludwigstrasse.