They’re usually called Lüftlmalerei in Bavaria, a traditional style of façade mural or fresco painting. The paintings often show religious scenes, saints, local life, professions, or decorative trompe-l’oeil details, and they were meant both to beautify buildings and to express local faith, identity, and prosperity.

What the name means

“Lüftlmalerei” is a Bavarian term whose exact origin is debated. One common explanation links it to the house name “Zum Lüftl” associated with painter Franz Seraph Zwinck, while another connects it to the idea of painting outdoors or in the air.

What it usually symbolizes

These paintings are not just decoration; they often tell a story about the home or community. Common meanings include:

  • Religious protection, such as saints or the Virgin Mary.
  • Pride in work and daily life, with scenes of farming, crafts, or village life.
  • Wealth, taste, and regional identity, since painted façades were often found on prominent homes.

Simple example

A painted saint on a house might be asking for protection, while a scene of workers or a family story might reflect who lived there or what they valued.

TL;DR: Bavarian building paintings are commonly called Lüftlmalerei , and they usually mean a mix of religious devotion, local identity, and decorative storytelling.