Description & Facts: Munich (German: Muenchen) is the capital city of Bavaria, the largest federal state of Germany (by area - not by population). Within the city limits, Munich has a population of more than 1.3 million, making it the third most populous city in Germany. The urban area, which sprawls on the foothills of the Alps, has a population of about 2.7 million. Munich is noted for its architecture and culture, and the annual Oktoberfest beer celebration is world famous. Munich's cultural scene is second to none in Germany, with the museums even considered by some to outrank Berlin in quality. Many travelers to Munich are absolutely stunned by the quality of the architecture. Although it was heavily damaged by allied bombing during World War II, many of its historic buildings have been rebuilt and the city center appears mostly as it did in the late 1800s. City Center (Marienplatz/Isartor/Karlsplatz/Odeonsplatz)- The city center is made up largely of the Karlsplatz (also known as "Stachus" by the locals) and the pedestrian shopping zone that leads down to Marienplatz square, which are the main tourist hangouts. However, for ease of use, the areas directly around these squares should be included in the city center. The city center is usually defined as the area within the old walled city, now most distinctly recognizable by the traffic loop known as the Altstadtring, although there are many portions of the historical walls still visible. Most notable are of course the gates at Stachus, Isartor and Sendlingertor (all located at U-Bahn/S-Bahn stations).