Special Exhibition: King Ludwig II – Images of a Fairy-Tale King
May 18, 2026
In collaboration with Dr. Bernhard Graf, the Munich Show is presenting an extraordinary and high-caliber special exhibition this year dedicated to the life of the legendary Bavarian King Ludwig II. Across a total of 16 impressively staged chapters, a fascinating portrait of the “Fairy-Tale King” unfolds, vividly told through rare original photographs and precious personal treasures from his collection.
Visitors gain a unique insight into the visions, dreams, and visual worlds of Ludwig II and embark on a journey through key stages of his eventful life—in a sense, through the eyes of the Wittelsbach monarch himself.
A spectacular highlight forms the centerpiece of the exhibition: Over a period of more than ten years, sculptor Thomas Doneis created an impressive 1:62-scale replica of Neuschwanstein Castle from a single 21-ton block of sandstone. It is a masterpiece of extraordinary attention to detail and artistic dedication.
On the occasion of the 200th anniversary of photography, this special exhibition uniquely combines historical photography, royal splendor, and monumental sculpture into an unforgettable experience.
King Ludwig II of Bavaria (1845–1886)
King Ludwig II and his fiancée, Princess Sophie, Duchess of Bavaria
Sculptor Thomas Doneis in front of his replica of Neuschwanstein Castle