The twin towers of the Frauenkirche are the symbol of Munich. The Cathedral of Our Lady was built in brick between 1468 and 1488 by the master builder Jörg von Halsbach, and the rounded domes on its towers were added in 1524–25.
The towers
The towers are around 99 metres high, and they still shape the skyline: in 2004 the people of Munich voted to keep new high-rise buildings inside the city’s Middle Ring Road below that height. From the south tower, reached by lift and stairs, there is a superb view over the Old Town and – on clear days – the Alps.
Inside the cathedral
The vast, bright hall church is simpler than many Bavarian churches, which makes its size all the more striking. Look for the tomb of Emperor Louis IV (Ludwig the Bavarian), and the stained-glass windows in the choir.
The Devil’s Footprint
In the entrance hall, a dark mark in the floor is known as the Teufelstritt. Legend says the devil stamped his foot here in triumph, believing the architect had built a church without windows – because from that spot, the columns hide every window.
Tips
- Entry to the church is free; please don’t visit during services.
- The tower is ticketed and not wheelchair accessible: check the current hours before you go.
- Combine it with Marienplatz, a three-minute walk away.
