A special place on this list is held by Schyrenbad — a legendary institution in the Untergiesing district with a history spanning nearly two centuries. The path of this pool has been long and arduous: from strict regulations and icy river water to its current status as the metropolis’s premier family resort.
Nearly 180 years of history: Schyrenbad as a mirror of the era
Schyrenbad is not just a place for swimming; it is a genuine historical monument. It opened its doors in 1847 under the simple name Städtisches Freibad (City Outdoor Pool). To understand the scale of its “seniority,” one only needs to compare it to the city’s second oldest establishment, Maria Einsiedel, which welcomed its first guests in 1899 — more than half a century later.
Its fortunate location near the Isar and its idyllic atmosphere, featuring a spacious lawn under the shade of ancient trees, have always been hallmarks of this site. However, the pool’s modern appearance differs sharply from its original setup. In its early years, the establishment functioned exclusively as a men’s bathhouse. Women were strictly barred from the grounds for nearly ninety years. This situation changed only in 1938, when the pool finally became accessible to all citizens. From that moment, it began its gradual transformation into a cozy space for family recreation, now hosting Qi Gong classes, chess areas, and table tennis.
Ordeal by the elements and royal connections
In the mid-19th century, bathing at Schyrenbad was an ordeal for the strong-willed. The water was supplied via a special channel called the Freibadbächl, a branch of the Auer Mühlbach stream, and was nearly as cold as the Isar itself. Just eight years after its opening, in 1855, a catastrophic flood struck the city, completely destroying the bathhouse structures.
Reconstruction took time, and it was during this period that the site acquired its current name. Since 1877, it has been officially known as Schyrenbad. This name, like the adjacent street, has deep historical roots: it refers to the Counts of Schyren (or Scheyern), who were the ancestors of the great Wittelsbach dynasty. Thus, even the name of the pool emphasizes its unbreakable link to Bavarian history.
Modern comfort and an honorable mission
A major general renovation in 2006 finaly transformed Schyrenbad into a modern, high-tech complex. Old structures were replaced with durable, heated stainless steel basins, extending the comfortable swimming season. Today, the pool area can simultaneously accommodate up to 7,500 guests, offering entertainment for every taste.
For those who value sport, there is a 50-meter pool with designated lanes. Families with children prefer the attraction pool and the special children’s paddling pool. Furthermore, every year in early May, Schyrenbad performs a vital civic function: its poolside traditionally hosts the solemn ceremony for the official opening of Munich‘s outdoor swimming season. The city’s oldest pool continues to set the tone for summer leisure, reminding us of the importance of preserving traditions while keeping pace with the times.
Source: Munich Municipality, SWM
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