Nestled on a gentle hill in the district of Au, the Nockherberg holds a special place in Münchens cultural and brewing history. It is best known as the home of the Paulaner Brewery, which has stood here since the seventeenth century. The origin of Nockherberg’s fame dates back to 1634, when monks of the Neudeck ob der Au monastery first brewed a dark, strong beer known as Salvator to sustain themselves during Lent. This hearty beverage quickly gained popularity, becoming not only a symbol of local craftsmanship but also an inseparable part of Münchens identity. Over time, the hillside location transformed from a monastic retreat into a vibrant site for one of Bavaria’s most beloved beer traditions.
The Starkbierfest, or Strong Beer Festival, is the annual highlight of Nockherberg’s calendar. Taking place during Lent, it predates the more famous Oktoberfest and is steeped in centuries of monastic tradition. During the festival, the specially brewed Salvator beer is tapped with great ceremony, often opened by a public figure in the traditional beer blessing known as the ‚Anstich‘. The event then unfolds into a lively celebration of Bavarian culture, with hearty food, brass bands, and the renowned ‚Derblecken’, a traditional roast where politicians and public figures are humorously ridiculed in dialect. Visitors experience an atmosphere that balances reverence for history with light-hearted festivity, offering a glimpse into Münchens unique sense of humour and self-irony.
Outside of the festival season, Nockherberg offers much more than its brewing heritage. The Paulaner restaurant and brewery complex is a sophisticated yet welcoming space where diners can sample a wide selection of Bavarian dishes paired with freshly tapped beer brewed on the premises. The ambience combines tradition and modern design: wooden interiors, tall windows, and copper brewing kettles provide a warm setting for both locals and travellers. Whether for a traditional Schweinshaxe, a pretzel with Obatzda, or simply a cold Salvator, it remains a favoured spot to savour the spirit of Münchens conviviality.
During the warmer months, the beer garden above the brewery comes to life, shaded by chestnut trees and offering a tranquil view over the city rooftops. It is a place where the simple pleasures of Bavarian life – good food, locally brewed beer, and easy conversation – take centre stage. Families, workers, and visitors mingle on long wooden benches, enjoying the relaxed rhythm of the afternoon. As the sun sets over München, with the faint hum of conversation and the clink of steins filling the air, Nockherberg feels less like a tourist destination and more like a living piece of Bavarian history.
Paulaner am Nockherberg
München
Germany
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