Freising Travel Guide

Introduction

32km (20 miles) N of Munich

Freising, one of Bavaria's oldest towns, grew up around a bishopric founded in the 8th century. By the 12th century, under Bishop Otto von Freising, the area had begun a spiritual and cultural boom. Freising, however, was caught in a bitter rivalry with Munich that had repercussions lasting from the 12th century until the beginning of the 19th century. Bishop Otto owned a profitable toll bridge (which was not good for other areas) over the Isar until 1156, when Henry the Lion destroyed it and built his own bridge, wresting control of the lucrative salt route from the bishop and founding his settlement, München. It was Freising that went into decline then as Munich prospered. As a result of the quarrel, up until 1803, Munich was forced to pay compensation to Freising for Henry's action. We do list one restaurant below. However, if you're looking for a place to stay, we recommend going back to Munich.