Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Square · Erfurt, Turíngia
Domplatz
One of the largest squares in Germany, at the foot of the cathedral and São Severo. It features old houses, a market, summer performances and a Christmas market at the end of the year.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Domplatz
The Domplatz is the large square at the foot of the Domberg, covering about 3.5 hectares. On one side the 70-step staircase rises to the cathedral and the Severikirche; on the other, houses from different periods enclose the space, such as the Grüne Apotheke and the old inn Zur Hohen Lilie, which received a Renaissance refurbishment in 1538.
The square has been used as a market since the Middle Ages and still hosts stalls. In summer the city theatre often stages outdoor performances using the steps as a stage. At the end of the year, the Christmas market usually runs from late November until close to Christmas and is among the largest in Germany.
The staircase only took its current form in the mid-19th century. On the north side stands the courthouse building from 1880. Behind the churches the hill of Petersberg rises, with its Baroque fortress: the ascent is already visible from the square.
The Domplatz is the natural starting point for exploring Erfurt: streets leading to the Fischmarkt and the Krämerbrücke start there, and the tram runs through the square.
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
20 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the crowds and events.
Best time
In the late afternoon the light falls on the façades of the churches. At the end of the year the Christmas market usually occupies the square from late November until close to Christmas. On market days the square is busier in the morning.
How to get there
Tram stop Domplatz. From the Fischmarkt it's about a 5-minute walk along Marktstraße.
Tip
For the classic photo of the staircase with the two churches, stand on the opposite side of the square. During events, part of the square may be occupied by stands or market stalls.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Domplatz
When does Erfurt’s Christmas market take place?
It usually runs from late November until near Christmas, set up on the Domplatz. Check the dates for the year before travelling.
Is there a market at the Domplatz?
Yes, the square is still used as a market. Check which days of the week it operates before you go.
What are the performances on the steps?
In summer, the Erfurt theatre usually stages open-air performances using the cathedral steps as a stage. The programme changes every year.