For more than 40 years, the Murnau Historical Society The history of the place comes alive for locals and visitors alike. Chairwoman Dr. Melanie Bauer provides insights into ongoing collaborations, planned projects, and the highlights of the coming year.
Since its founding in 1980, the Murnau Historical Society has been dedicated to researching and documenting local history. "Because history is not just the past, but also a key to understanding the present," says Dr. Melanie Bauer. The historian, who holds a doctorate, has lived in Murnau since 2011 and was elected chairwoman in April 2025, succeeding Dr. Marion Hruschka, who is now honorary chairwoman.
The association originated from a citizens' initiative that aimed to promote the use of Murnau Castle as a museum. Today, nine board members and numerous supporters are actively involved. "Without all these helping hands, the association wouldn't function," emphasizes Bauer. "They send birthday greetings, lovingly decorate our display case in Postgasse, or deliver the association's mail."
Whether prehistory and early history or contemporary history with relevance to the present – the topics are deliberately broad. "Through the cultural advisory board, of which we are members, we also support the town of Murnau on cultural policy issues," explains Bauer.
Collaboration and projects
One focus of our work is supporting the Murnau Castle Museum. “Currently, for example, we are funding the…” Open Studio “On the first Saturday of the month, where children and adults can let their creativity run free,” said Bauer.
Furthermore, the Murnau Historical Society regularly collaborates with other institutions. "For lectures, for example, we work together with the Seehausen Local History and Museum Association or with the Fruit and Horticulture Association – this year for the still-pending lecture in November on 'New Developments in Archaeology in and around Lake Staffelsee' or last March for the lecture on Himbsels Rambur, a historical apple variety."
A pet project is the publication of a new yearbook featuring "genuinely Murnau-related topics," scheduled for release in 2026. But the coming year holds even more highlights: from new insights into the Hitler Putsch and the "Myth of the Murnau Moor" to excursions to Rose Island in Lake Starnberg and to Schongau. Together with the associations organized within the cultural advisory board, the 125th anniversary of [unclear] will also be celebrated. Ödön von Horváth celebrated.
“On Open Monument Day – always on the second Sunday in September – we want to offer a rally for families through Murnau. This way, children and their parents can playfully discover our history.” With this new format, the association hopes to inspire even the youngest visitors with Murnau’s history.
A story for all generations
Working with young people is particularly important to Bauer: “We have been cooperating with the Staffelsee-Gymnasium Murnau for many years. Upper school students can present their historical work as part of our lectures. This inspires young people and adults alike.”
The Historical Society is always happy to welcome new members and interested guests. The annual membership fee is €16. Membership applications can be found [here/at this link]. online or directly at the lectures.