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King Ludwig II and Bismarck: Insights into their Bavarian connection!
Experience the exhibition “King Ludwig II and Bad Kissingen” in the Obere Saline Museum until August 30, 2026. Discover the fascinating connection between the fairytale king and Bismarck.
King Ludwig II and Bismarck: Insights into their Bavarian connection!
The exhibition “King Ludwig II and Bad Kissingen – Imperial cure and Franconian journey” in the Obere Saline Museum currently offers an exciting opportunity to discover the deep-rooted connection between the Bavarian king and the traditional spa town. It presents Ludwig II's only official business trip to Franconia in 1866, which was not only associated with historical characters such as Otto von Bismarck, but also with important international encounters. Ludwig met the Russian Tsar and the Austrian imperial couple in Kissingen in 1864. [Bad Kissingen](https://www.badkissingen.de/kultur/ Veranstaltungskalender?ev[id]=135757) invites you to relive these experiences by visiting the exhibition.
Visitors can access a variety of exhibits and media stations that shed light on Ludwig's work in Bad Kissingen. A highlight is the accompanying publication “King Ludwig II and Bad Kissingen. Kaiserkur & Frankenfahrt”, edited by Peter Weidisch, which is available for €25.00. The book by Cornelia Oelwein and Annette Späth offers in-depth insights and new perspectives on the Bavarian “Fairy Tale King,” who is often perceived as more of a mystical figure. The exhibition runs until August 30, 2026 and is open Wednesday to Sunday and on public holidays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Guided tours are also possible outside these times if booked in advance.
A glimpse into history
The exhibition is not only a nostalgic return to royal times, but also a window into the complex relationships between Ludwig II and Bismarck. In 1870, during the turbulent period of the Franco-Prussian War, Ludwig played a crucial role in the proclamation of Wilhelm I as emperor. These major events are deeply interwoven with the so-called Kaiserbrief, which was signed by Ludwig and Bismarck, and whose effects had a lasting impact on Bavarian politics. Wikipedia describes that Ludwig II sought a so-called Greater German solution that would include Austria, which often brought him into conflict with Bismarck's Prussian dominance.
The tensions between Ludwig II and Bismarck's machinations were increased not least by the king's financial difficulties. Nevertheless, this was a game that Bismarck masterfully steered in his favor by getting Ludwig to agree to the imperial letter. The insecurities of this time are reflected in the exhibition and illustrate the power games that took place between the two men.
A visit with pleasure
Another reason to visit the exhibition are the pleasant extras that the museum offers. The small café in the foyer offers a fine selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks. For souvenir hunters, the museum shop not only has the accompanying publication mentioned above, but also many other items.
Experience the connection between King Ludwig II and Bad Kissingen, where history comes to life! Just come along, immerse yourself and enjoy the atmosphere. If you have any questions or would like to book tours, please call +49 (0) 971 807-4230 or send an email to mos@stadt.badkissingen.de send. For all information about the exhibition, it is worth taking a look at the website of the Museum Obere Saline.