Frauenkirche/Cathedral Church of Our Lady

Frauenkirche or the Cathedral of Our Lady is a truly iconic landmark of Munich! Prepare to be impressed, because this church is massive, rich in history, and full of fascinating stories.

Now, the Frauenkirche is more than just a church; it’s a symbol of Munich, towering over the city skyline. It’s been here for centuries, witnessing everything Munich has gone through, and its story is deeply intertwined with the city’s own.

So, the original church on this site was actually built way back in the 12th century, but over time, it became too small for the growing city. So, in the 15th century, they decided to build something much grander.

Construction started in 1468, led by the architect Jörg von Halsbach, sometimes referred to as Ganghofer. And it was a huge undertaking! The main structure was completed in just 20 years, which is pretty amazing considering the size and scale of the building. But the towers weren’t finished until much later.

Here’s a cool fact: they built the church using as much of the original materials as possible from the older smaller church.

One of the most distinctive features of the Frauenkirche is its two towers, topped with these onion-shaped domes. They weren’t actually added until the late 15th century. The towers weren’t initially planned, but the architect Ganghofer convinced the city council to add them, making the church even more impressive.

Alright, so what should you look for when you visit the Frauenkirche?

Well, first off, the sheer size of the building is astounding. The interior is vast and spacious, creating a sense of awe and reverence. It is made of dark and simple stone and is beautiful in its minimalism.

Speaking of towers, you can actually climb one of them! The south tower offers fantastic panoramic views of Munich, including the Alps on a clear day. It is worth the hike if you are able to walk the staircase up to the top.

As you walk in the front door, look closely at the floor near the entrance. You’ll notice a single, dark footprint. This is called the Teufelstritt, or Devil’s Footstep. Legend says that the architect Ganghofer made a deal with the devil. The church could be built without windows, so the Devil accepted. After he realized that the church did have windows, the Devil stamped in anger to be fooled, and that’s how that footprint came to be.

And finally, take some time to reflect on the history and significance of this place. The Frauenkirche has been a place of worship, a symbol of hope, and a witness to the triumphs and tragedies of Munich for centuries. It’s a truly special place, and a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

If the door is open, look inside too.