The Maximilianeum is a magnificent building constructed on the east bank of the River Isar between 1857 and 1874. Since 1949 the building has been the seat of the Bavarian Parliament.

The building began back in 1857, when King Maximilian II decided to hold a contest to see who could come up with the best design for the building. The winning design however by William Stier was completely dismissed by Max II, he chose the design by Friedrich Burklein, who had helped the King with ideas and plans for growth for the city of Munich.

It took seven years in total to build the Maximilianeum, even though the King changed the design as planned by Burklein from Gothic to neo-Renaissance style. Construction was finally complete in 1874. King Maximilianeum had died by the time the Maximilaneum was complete, he passed away in 1864.

The Maximilianeum is divided into three sections: a massive centre building with two straight wings. Two rows of round arches compliment the front of the structure. At the far end of the centre building, you can see a three storey open tower.

The mosaics in the Maximilianeum are just amazing. The full interior is designed with 19th century works of art, including 30 pieces that Maximilian II commissioned.