The extension of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, constructed between 1906 and 1910, stands as one of the definitive early projects by German Bestelmeyer. A central figure in the architectural debates of the early twentieth century, he navigated a career defined by traditionalist aesthetics, academic leadership, and strong associations with the prevailing political culture of the German Reich.
Early Training and Career
Born in Nuremberg in 1874 to a military doctor, Bestelmeyer initiated his professional education in 1893. He completed his architectural studies under the tutelage of Friedrich von Thiersch at the Technical University of Munich and refined his skills at the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna under Friedrich von Schmidt. His initial career involved roles as a building inspector and planner across Nuremberg and Regensburg, establishing a foundation that led to his significant university contributions.
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Bestelmeyer held a succession of prestigious professorships across Germany. His tenure began in 1910 at the Technische Universität Dresden, followed by a move to the Dresden Academy of Fine Arts. By 1915, he secured a position at the Berlin University of the Arts, simultaneously accepting a professorship at the Technische Universität Berlin in 1919. In 1922, he returned to the Technical University of Munich. His academic influence culminated in 1934 when he assumed the presidency of the Academy of Fine Arts, Munich, a post he maintained until his death in 1942.
Architectural Ideology and Political Ties
Championing traditionalist and völkisch architecture, Bestelmeyer resisted the modernist currents of the era. He participated in the founding of 'The Block' in 1928, a collective opposing the modernist Der Ring group. His affiliations included the Deutscher Werkbund and the antisemitic Militant League for German Culture. By 1935, he was designated a Reich Cultural Senator. He publicly dismissed 1920s architecture as soulless and criticized flat roofs, advocating instead for designs perceived as more culturally and climatically appropriate for the region.
Significant Projects
Beyond the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München extension, Bestelmeyer was known for the Christ Church and the Luftwaffe office building on Prinzregentenstraße in Munich. His portfolio included numerous Protestant churches. Notably, his design for the Mangfall Bridge—a girder structure supported by two massive concrete pylons—was personally selected by Adolf Hitler. This project gained recognition for its functional scale and simple, modern aesthetic within the nascent Reichsautobahn network.
Fast facts
- Born: 1874, Nuremberg
- Died: 1942, Bad Wiessee
- Citizenship: German Reich
- Awards: Bavarian Maximilian Order for Science and Art (1925)
- Alma Mater: Technical University of Munich; Academy of Fine Arts Vienna
- Political Membership: Militant League for German Culture
Questions readers ask
What major educational roles did German Bestelmeyer hold?
He held professorships at the Technische Universität Dresden, Berlin University of the Arts, Technische Universität Berlin, and the Technical University of Munich, eventually serving as President of the Academy of Fine Arts, Munich.
Which notable structures are attributed to him?
His recognized works include the extension of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Christ Church, the Luftwaffe office building in Munich, and the Mangfall Bridge.
Achievements
- Notable work: Christ Church
- Bavarian Maximilian Order for Science and Art
- Trained at Technical University of Munich and Academy of Fine Arts Vienna
