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Cathedral · Munique, Baviera
Frauenkirche
15th-century brick Gothic cathedral, with the two towers topped by rounded domes that are the symbol of Munich. The south tower can be visited.
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 Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche, or Cathedral of Our Lady, is the seat of the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising. It was built between 1468 and 1488 by master builder Jörg von Halsbach in exposed brick, and is one of the largest Gothic churches in southern Germany. The two towers, nearly 99 meters high, were topped in the 16th century with the rounded domes that became the city's landmark.
From the outside the building is sober, lacking the flying buttresses common in Gothic architecture. Inside, tall white columns create a bright nave. Near the entrance is the famous footprint in the floor, the Teufelstritt, associated with a legend about the devil and windows that cannot be seen from that spot.
The cathedral was heavily damaged by World War II bombings and rebuilt in the following decades. Inside are the tomb of Emperor Louis IV the Bavarian and the crypt of the archbishops and members of the Wittelsbach family.
The south tower can be visited: first you climb 86 steps via a narrow spiral staircase and then an elevator takes you to the observation room, with views over Marienplatz and, on clear days, the Alps. Tickets are sold at the shop inside the cathedral.
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
Half an hour for the interior; one hour including the climb of the south tower.
Best time
In the morning, before groups arrive. During Mass there is no tourist visiting: check the schedule of services. For the tower, choose clear days, when the view can reach the Alps.
How to get there
It's about 200 meters from Marienplatz on foot. The nearest stations are Marienplatz (U3, U6 and S-Bahn) and Karlsplatz/Stachus.
Tip
The south tower's staircase is narrow and spiral; people with claustrophobia should avoid it. Look for the Teufelstritt, the devil's footprint, just after the main entrance. Guided visits usually take place on weekdays; check locally.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Frauenkirche
Can you go up the tower of the Frauenkirche?
Yes, in the south tower. There are 86 spiral staircase steps to an elevator that takes you to the observation room. Tickets are sold at the cathedral shop, and hours change on Sundays and public holidays; check before you go.
What is the devil's footprint in the Frauenkirche?
It is a footprint mark on the floor near the entrance, the Teufelstritt. The legend says that the devil entered the church and, from that spot, saw no windows, which made him stamp his foot in joy.
Is there an entrance fee for the Frauenkirche?
Entry to the cathedral is free. The ascent of the south tower is paid, with tickets sold on site.
Can I visit during mass?
No. During services there is no tourist visitation. Check the mass schedule before you go.