In 1818, still as a Crown Prince, he visits Brueckenau for the first time.
Another 25 stays followed, because he was filled with enthusiasm because of the rest and the unspoiled nature in contrast to the turbulent Munich residence. Those stays mint Brueckenau decisively. He completed the baroque facility of the state spa, had the medicinal springs edged newly. Ludwig was an early ecologist from today's view and he took care of the protection of nature in the Sinntal.

Because of his engagement in the fields of education policy, culture and churches 75 monasteries and convents, several universities and central schools could be founded from 1826 to 1848.

In 1835 the new coat of arms for Bavaria were passed on Ludwig's initiative. It symbolizes all tribes in Bavaria (Old- and Lower Bavaria, Palatinate, Franconia, Swabia). 1846 the 25-year old dancer Elizabeth Gilbert - alias Lola Montez - arrived in Munich. She becomes acquainted with the king and turns out to be the mistress of the sixty-years old monarch. Ludwig and Lola Montez, in the meantime ennobled to Countess of Landsfeld, spend a stay together in the anonymity of Brückenau in 1847.

Today numerous poems about her verify the deep affection of the king to her, as well his letters to Lola Montez. Armed students and civil riots in whole Bavaria lead to the abdication of the king in 1848.

His oldest son Maximilian II. become his successor. Queen Theresa died 1854, King Ludwig died on February, 29th 1868 in Nice.