Burgersaal, Munich

The Bürgersaal, also known as the Citizen's Hall, is a quaint two-story building designed in the Baroque style. It is situated on Neuhauser Strasse, north of Marienplatz. This structure was constructed between 1709 and 1710 under the guidance of Giovanni Antonio Viscardi. Originally, it served as a meeting place for a group known as the Marian Congregation of Men, associated with the Jesuit order. However, since 1778, it has been repurposed as a church.

In contemporary times, the Bürgersaal draws visitors who wish to pay tribute to the anti-Nazi Jesuit priest, Rupert Mayer, who was later canonized by Pope John Paul II. Within the church, there is a prominent shrine dedicated to Father Rupert Mayer, which has become a renowned pilgrimage site. During World War II, the building suffered significant damage, leaving only a few of the original frescoes intact.

The lower section of the church features a low-vaulted hall adorned with statues placed within alcoves, along with a small chapel. The upper floor of the building is the highlight, showcasing exquisite religious artworks. Notable among these is the altar relief titled "Mariae Verkündigung," considered a masterpiece of the Baroque era, crafted by sculptor Andreas Faistenberger. Another precious artwork within is the sculpture of a guardian angel created by Ignaz Günther. Additionally, the upper floor is adorned with thirteen oil landscape paintings by Franz Joachim Beich, depicting various pilgrimage sites in Bavaria.