Triple anniversary: ​​The Wittelsbachs celebrate at Tegernsee

A source of joy: 80th birthday, golden wedding anniversary and 200 years of Wittelsbach at Tegernsee – the valley celebrated its Duke Max in Bavaria and his family.

2017 was a special triple anniversary in the Tegernsee Valley: Duke Max in Bavaria celebrated his 80th birthday and the golden wedding anniversary of his wife, Duchess Elizabeth. The 200th anniversary of the Wittelsbach dynasty also took place at Tegernsee. In May, numerous guests from politics, society, and family gathered for the occasion, including the ducal couple's five daughters and their families, and Bavaria's Deputy Prime Minister, Ilse Aigner.

The mountain riflemen underscored the valley's close connection to "its" duke with a triple salute and a ceremonial marching band. As a lasting symbol, a fountain ensemble with a bronze sculpture was ceremoniously inaugurated – designed by architect Axel Hofstadt and blessed by Monsignor Walter Waldschütz.

Since King Max I Joseph converted the former Tegernsee Monastery into a summer residence in 1817, the Wittelsbach dynasty has shaped the valley. Their presence attracted nobility, diplomats, and numerous visitors to Tegernsee, made the region famous, and left a deep cultural mark—from the Ducal Brewery to the preservation of traditional costumes and folk music.

To mark its anniversary, the Tegernseer Tal Museum opened a special exhibition entitled “The Royal Valley,” featuring precious paintings, rare objects, and an impressive replica of the Bavarian royal crown.

Photo: Thomas Plettenberg