category of places

Frauenkirche

About

The Frauenkirche, officially the Cathedral of Our Dear Lady, is Munich’s most iconic landmark, its twin onion-domed towers defining the city skyline since the late 15th century. Built between 1468 and 1488 by master builder Jörg von Halsbach, the vast brick Gothic hall church was completed with its distinctive domes in 1525, inspired by the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. Despite heavy damage during the Second World War, it was faithfully restored, preserving its role as the seat of the Archbishop of Munich and Freising. Inside, the soaring nave is flooded with light, leading to treasures such as the late Gothic choir stalls, the tomb of Emperor Ludwig IV, and the famous “Devil’s Footprint” embedded in the floor, tied to a centuries-old legend. Visitors can ascend the south tower for sweeping views over Munich and, on clear days, the Alps. Standing on Frauenplatz, the Frauenkirche remains both a place of worship and a powerful symbol of the Bavarian capital’s history and identity.

Munich Germany

Location

The Frauenkirche, officially known as the Cathedral of Our Dear Lady, is located at Frauenplatz 12 in the heart of Munich’s Old Town. This iconic late Gothic church, built in the 15th century, is renowned for its imposing twin towers topped with distinctive onion domes, which define Munich’s skyline and are among the tallest structures in the city due to local height restrictions. The church’s spacious interior is notable for its simplicity and important features such as the richly decorated Wittelsbach tomb and the mysterious Devil’s Footprint near the entrance. Visitors can climb the south tower to enjoy panoramic views of Munich with the Alps visible on clear days. Nearby, the Frauenkirche neighbors landmarks like Marienplatz, the New Town Hall, Viktualienmarkt, and St. Peter’s Church, offering a cultural and historic core where visitors can also find charming cafes, restaurants, and shops. Its central location makes the Frauenkirche an essential stop for those exploring Munich’s historic old town.

Frauenkirche

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