Old South Cemetery Alter Südfriedhof
A centuries-old burial ground in Munich, renowned for its elaborate tombstones, angel statues, and serene park-like atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Old South Cemetery Alter Südfriedhof
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A centuries-old burial ground in Munich, renowned for its elaborate tombstones, angel statues, and serene park-like atmosphere.
"Absolutely stunning and remarkable graveyard / park with lovely German history."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but avoid intrusive shots. Be mindful of others and the solemnity of the place.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elaborate Tombstones
Discover centuries of history etched in stone, from intricate carvings to grand statues.
Angel Statues
Find serene and often poignant angel sculptures guarding eternal resting places.
Green Oasis
Escape the city bustle in this peaceful park-like setting with lush greenery and diverse flora.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Navigating the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but avoid intrusive shots. Be mindful of others and the solemnity of the place. +1
🌳 Embrace the Nature
It's a beautiful arboretum too! Look for birds and squirrels.
🤫 Keep it Quiet
This is a place for reflection, not a playground or running track.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but avoid intrusive shots. Be mindful of others and the solemnity of the place. +1
🌳 Embrace the Nature
It's a beautiful arboretum too! Look for birds and squirrels.
🤫 Keep it Quiet
This is a place for reflection, not a playground or running track.
🔍 Specific Grave Search
If looking for someone, research beforehand or ask at local archives.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old South Cemetery Alter Südfriedhof for its stunning beauty, historical depth, and peaceful atmosphere, describing it as a remarkable graveyard and park. Many appreciate the intricate tombstones, statues, and the lush greenery, finding it a serene escape. However, some express strong disapproval of joggers and others who they feel disrespect the solemnity of the site.
"Absolutely stunning and remarkable graveyard / park. ALL kinds of different graves, statues, sights, beautiful greenery, stunning sun reflecting by each gravestone. I usually don’t go into cemeteries but this one spoke to us and has such lovely history engraved into each stone, allowing you to get a glimpse of each persons life and personalities, character and insight on how life may of been like. Some go back to the 1700s and probably even further back. It was very safe and peaceful as well as a large space to walk through. If you are going through this part of town you may as well walk through here instead! Lovely German history, may they all rest in love warmth and peace 🙏🏽"
Edis
"It is probably difficult to use the word "beautiful" in relation to the place associated with death, but that’s how I want to describe this cemetery. This is a relatively large and very ancient cemetery in the territory of which there are also crypts and graves with statues and other decorative elements. Moreover, it’s not pretentious decorative elements but truly suitable with its appearance to a place like this. This cemetery is saturated with a deep past, unshakable peace and immeasurable respect for those who contributed to the fact that so ancient burial places would remain in good condition and open for visiting to the descendants.
I was very annoyed with only one thing - in an hour of walking around this cemetery, I met about five to seven joggers. You can judge me as you like, but I very much disrespect such an ugly attitude to a place that symbolizes the "peace and relaxation of departed people". A cemetery is a damn not a running ground."
Alexandr Orlov
"It is a lovely cemetery that allows you to escape the city of life due to its high walls and nature.
You'll find the maximum about of peace in the more Northern Party as it contains less people and you're able to find a bench to sit and enjoy.
If you're lucky you will be able to see a hedgehog roaming around."
Dylan Filkins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alter Südfriedhof is accessible by public transport. Several bus lines stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from some central Munich areas.
Street parking can be limited in the vicinity. Public transport is generally recommended for easier access.
Yes, cycling is a great option, and there are often bike racks available.
It's a well-known landmark, but using a GPS or map app on your phone is always helpful.
Many visitors enjoy combining a visit with a walk along the nearby river or exploring the surrounding historic neighborhoods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the cemetery is generally free. It's a public space for historical and peaceful exploration.
The cemetery is typically open daily from morning until dusk. It's best to check local listings for exact times as they can vary seasonally.
Generally, cemeteries close at dusk for safety and to maintain a peaceful environment.
While not always formally advertised, local historical societies or groups may offer guided tours. It's worth checking for local event listings.
If any special events are held within the cemetery, there might be a fee, but general access is free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a vast array of historical tombstones, elaborate statues (especially angels), crypts, and beautiful natural scenery. It's a living arboretum with diverse plant and animal life.
Yes, it's a popular spot for photographers, especially for gothic or artistic shots. Remember to be respectful and avoid intrusive behavior. +1
While it's a park-like setting, it's best to avoid picnicking to maintain the solemnity of the space. Focus on quiet reflection.
Restroom facilities may be limited or unavailable. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit.
The main paths are generally paved, but some areas have uneven terrain. It's best to check accessibility details if you have specific needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for areas with striking angel statues, unique historical tombstones, and the beautiful interplay of light and shadow through the trees.
Be mindful of privacy and avoid disturbing other visitors or the graves. Professional photoshoots might require permission. +1
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light, creating beautiful shadows and a serene atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in cemeteries to ensure peace and respect. Always check local regulations.
Many visitors enjoy gothic, artistic, and nature photography, capturing the historical and atmospheric elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of ground to cover. While it's not a playground, the open spaces and interesting monuments can capture a child's imagination. It's a good opportunity to teach about respecting historical sites and the lives of people from the past.
📸 Photographers & Artists
Remember to be mindful of cemetery etiquette; avoid intrusive setups and always respect the solemnity of the place.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Genealogists
Consider doing some pre-trip research on notable individuals buried here. This will enhance your visit and help you locate specific points of interest. The cemetery's historical significance makes it a key site for understanding the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living History Book
Many visitors are struck by the depth of history evident in the older sections. Some stones are so weathered they are barely legible, while others are grand testaments to prominent families. It’s a place where you can spend hours piecing together stories and imagining the lives of those who came before.
For those interested in genealogy or local history, the cemetery is an invaluable resource. While finding specific graves can be challenging without prior research, the overall experience of wandering through centuries of history is profound.
Nature's Sanctuary
Wildlife thrives here, with many visitors reporting sightings of birds, squirrels, and even hedgehogs. It's a testament to how death can bring life, providing a sanctuary for local fauna. The combination of historical monuments and natural elements makes it a unique and captivating place to explore, appealing to nature lovers as much as history buffs.
Walking through the cemetery feels like exploring a hidden garden. The quiet paths, dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves, and the sounds of nature create a truly tranquil experience. It’s a perfect spot for a contemplative stroll or simply to enjoy a moment of peace away from the city.
Cemetery Etiquette: A Community Concern
Some visitors have expressed annoyance at seeing people treating cemeteries like parks or running tracks, emphasizing that these are sacred spaces for remembrance.
Creators often share tips on how to be a respectful visitor, such as staying on designated paths, keeping conversations quiet, and being mindful of any memorial services or other visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit