Ralph Siegel and Ulrich Walter Honored with Maximilian Order - Bavaria Honours Eight Visionaries with Prestigious Maximilian Order

Four distinguished figures in science and the arts have received Bavaria’s highest honour. Minister-President Markus Söder presented the Bavarian Maximilian Order to eight laureates at a ceremony in Munich. The award, often called the 'Bavarian Nobel Prize', recognises exceptional contributions to research, culture, and public life.

Among the recipients was composer Ralph Siegel, known for his prolific songwriting and Eurovision success. Scientists, actors, and a former astronaut also joined this year’s list of honourees.

The Bavarian Maximilian Order for Science and Art celebrates outstanding achievements across fields. This year’s ceremony saw Markus Söder honour eight individuals for their work in research, medicine, and the arts.

In the sciences, Maria-Elena Torres-Padilla, director of the Institute of Epigenetics and Stem Cells at the Helmholtz Center Munich, was recognised for her groundbreaking research. Cardiologist Georg Ertl, based in Würzburg, also received the award for his contributions to heart medicine. Bernd Huber, former president of Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, was honoured alongside Jörg Vogel, director of the Helmholtz Institute for RNA-Based Infection Research. Ulrich Walter, a former astronaut and professor of space technology, completed the scientific cohort. The arts were equally well represented. Composer Ralph Siegel, with over 2,000 songs to his name, was awarded for his decades-long impact on music, including multiple Eurovision entries. Actors Martina Gedeck and Rachel Salamander, as well as photographer Herlinde Koelbl, were also celebrated for their cultural influence. Söder praised the laureates for their dedication and innovation. The order, established in 1980, remains one of Germany’s most prestigious state honours.

The 2024 Bavarian Maximilian Order highlights achievements in both science and culture. The eight recipients join a long list of distinguished figures recognised by the Free State of Bavaria. Their work continues to shape research, medicine, and the arts in Germany and beyond.