Commissioned by King Maximilian II as an institution of higher learning, the Maximilianeum is now the headquarters of the Bavarian parliament.
Building the Maximilianeum
In the mid-1800s, it was the wish of 
Maximilian II to “embellish” the city of Munich. Part of his dream called for “an institution of higher learning and teaching.” Max II held a competition to choose the best design for this structure. Unfortunately, the competition wasn’t quite fair, as Max dismissed the winning design by Wilhelm Stier and instead gave the project to Friedrich Bürklein, who had assisted the king with other plans for city growth.
The foundation was laid in 1857, and between that time and the time of Max’s death seven years later, the king changed the plans. Rather than the Maximilianeum being 
Gothic in style, as Bürklein had planned, the king decided he preferred a neo-Renaissance design. Much of the central portion of the building required re-construction.
Construction was finally complete in 1874.
The Architecture
The Maximilianeum overlooks the east bank of the River Isar. It was fashioned in three sections: a slightly concave massive center building and two straight wings. Two rows of round arches grace the front of the structure. At the far ends of the 
center building, you’ll see a three-story open tower.
The mosaics on the center portion of the Maximilianeum are remarkable. The centermost mosaic depicts the “endowment of Ettal Monastery by Emperor Ludwig IV, demonstrating the piety and charity of the ruling Bavarian dynasty.” On the north projection, the mosaic represents the signing of the Treaty of Pavia, and on the opposite projection, you’ll find a representation of the liberation of Vienna from the Turks. The busts above the first row of arches are of “benefactors, inventors, sages, men of letters, statesmen and military commanders” who left their mark on Bavaria.
The interior is decorated with beautiful 19th century works of art, including about 30 pieces that were commissioned by Maximilian II.