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Church · Meersburg, Baden-Württemberg
Wallfahrtskirche Birnau
Baroque pilgrimage church built between 1746 and 1749 on the vineyards of the north shore, with frescoes by Gottfried Bernhard Göz and sculptures by Joseph Anton Feuchtmayer, such as the little putto Honigschlecker.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Wallfahrtskirche Birnau
The pilgrimage church of Birnau sits on a hillside between Nußdorf and Uhldingen-Mühlhofen, with vineyards sloping down to the lake in front. It was built from 1746 to 1749 by the Vorarlberg architect Peter Thumb for Salem Abbey, replacing an earlier pilgrimage chapel.
The interior is one of the most complete examples of southern German Baroque. The frescoes are by Gottfried Bernhard Göz; the stuccowork, altars and sculptures are by Joseph Anton Feuchtmayer. The best-known figure is the Honigschlecker, a putto licking honey from his finger beside a beehive — an allusion to Saint Bernard, who was said to be as sweet as honey in his eloquence.
Since 1971 the church has held the title of minor basilica. The building opposite, with the bell tower, houses a priory of Cistercian monks.
From the churchyard the view covers the vineyards, the lake and, on clear days, the Alps. It is a common stop on the route between Meersburg, Unteruhldingen and Überlingen.
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
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, with light coming through the windows. Avoid service times. Check before you go.
How to get there
It is about 8 km from Meersburg, beside the B 31 road, served by regional bus. From the Pfahlbaumuseum it's about 2.5 km on foot via a trail through the vineyards.
Tip
Look for the Honigschlecker among the sculptures on the side altars; it is one of the most photographed images in the church. From there, step out into the churchyard to see the lake framed by the vineyards.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Wallfahrtskirche Birnau
Is there an entrance fee for the Birnau church?
There is no charge to enter the church. Respect mass times.
What is the Honigschlecker?
A little angel sculpted by Joseph Anton Feuchtmayer, who licks honey from his finger beside a beehive, in reference to Saint Bernard.
How to get there without a car?
By regional bus along the lakeside road or on foot from the Pfahlbaumuseum de Unteruhldingen, about 2.5 km through vineyards.