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Church · Trier, Renânia-Palatinado
Liebfrauenkirche
Igreja de Nossa Senhora, next to the cathedral, built from around 1230. Together with the Elisabethkirche of Marburg, it is considered the oldest Gothic church in Germany.
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 Liebfrauenkirche
The Liebfrauenkirche was built from around 1230 on the site of an earlier church next to the cathedral. The work was practically finished by about 1260. Together with the Elisabethkirche of Marburg, it is considered the oldest Gothic church in Germany.
The plan is centralized, without the long nave of cathedrals: the space is organized from a square, with the choir projecting to one side and eight chapels surrounding the core. Twelve columns support the building and symbolize the twelve apostles.
Anyone standing in the center of the church can see all four arms at once, an effect intended by the builders. Stained glass, tombs and the sculpted portal complete the visit. A cloister links the church to the cathedral, and both rest on Roman foundations.
The Liebfrauenkirche is part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing together with the cathedral and Trier's Roman monuments.
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
About 20 to 30 minutes.
Best time
Outside Mass times. The late-morning light brings out the stained-glass windows.
How to get there
It's attached to the cathedral, a 2-minute walk from the Hauptmarkt.
Tip
Stand in the center of the church to see the columns and all four arms at once. Visit it together with the cathedral, passing through the cloister.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Liebfrauenkirche
What is the importance of the Liebfrauenkirche?
Together with the Elisabethkirche in Marburg, it is considered the oldest Gothic church in Germany, built roughly between 1230 and 1260.
What do the twelve columns represent?
The twelve apostles. They support the church's centralized plan.
Can you visit during Mass?
Tourist visiting is suspended during services. Prefer the intervals between Masses.