Church · Lindau, Baviera
Peterskirche
The oldest church in Lindau, in the former fishermen’s quarter, with Passion of Christ frescoes from the late 15th century. Today it serves as a memorial to the victims of the wars.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Peterskirche
Peterskirche is the oldest church in Lindau and one of the oldest on Lake Constance. Dedicated to Saint Peter, patron of fishermen, it stands on Schrannenplatz, where the families who lived off the lake resided; for that reason it is also called the fishermen’s church.
The interior is simple. On the north wall there is a Saint Christopher drawn in red and, beside it, bands of frescoes dated 1485–1490 depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. A signature with the letters HH led to an attribution to Hans Holbein the Elder, but the authorship is disputed today.
Since 1928 the church has functioned as a memorial to the war dead. A plaque commemorates the victims of the Nazi regime. It is a place of silence and respect.
Beside the church are its tower and the Diebsturm, a round section of the city wall with small turrets, which is worth photographing on the way.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
15 to 20 minutes.
Best time
During the day, when light enters through the windows and illuminates the frescoes. Check opening times before you go.
How to get there
It is in the western part of the old town, about a 5‑minute walk from Maximilianstraße.
Tip
As it is a memorial, keep your voice down inside. On leaving, head to the Diebsturm, just a few metres away.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Peterskirche
Are the frescoes by Holbein?
For a long time they were attributed to Hans Holbein the Elder because of an HH signature, but today the authorship is debated.
Does the church still hold masses?
Since 1928 it has served as a memorial to the war dead, not as a regular parish church.
What is the Diebsturm?
A round tower of the old city wall, with small turrets, a few meters from the church.
