May pole

The story of Munich's famous totem-like pole was one of my favourites I heard whilst in the city. A wondrous thing to behold, the pole is decorated with depictions of things important to the people of Munich, namely beer. In fact, almost every part has to do with beer! Each town in Bavaria has one of these, and they are a sort of symbol of pride for the people. So much so that neighbouring towns will even try to steal another town's maypole. One famous incident, was when the maypole in the middle of the Munich airport (past the security gates) was taken without a trace. Naturally, airport staff panicked and called the police, who then demanded free food as ransom for the maypole, which they had stolen! It is quite a spectacle. 


Another aspect of the story that Melissa particularly loved, was the creation of a maypole by (traditionally) men to give to someone they wish to ask on a date. If the answer was yes, they got to go on a date. If the answer was no, the recipient had to provide the asker with a case of beer. So it was really a win-win. Traditionally raised as an official opener for Spring, the maypole is a must when visiting Bavaria, if just to hear the fabulous stories.