St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s Church is known as "Alter Peter" by the locals, which means "Old Peter"! This isn’t just any church; it’s the oldest parish church in Munich, and it’s absolutely packed with history, art, and some seriously breathtaking views. Get ready for a climb, because the best part is at the top!

So, "Alter Peter" has been around for almost a thousand years! That’s right, the first church on this site was built all the way back in the 11th century! Over the centuries, it’s been rebuilt, renovated, and expanded, but it has remained a vital part of Munich’s history, always there witnessing the evolution of the city.

The name "Peter" comes from Saint Peter, the apostle, who is the patron saint of the church.

Like many buildings in Munich, St. Peter’s has been damaged and rebuilt several times, especially during World War II. But each time, it was lovingly restored to its former glory.

Now, what makes Alter Peter so special?

Well, first of all, it is the oldest church. It holds a lot of history. The architecture reflects its long and varied past. It’s a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Rococo styles, so as you walk around, you’ll see a unique blend of different eras.

Inside, the church is filled with incredible artwork. Look for the high altar, which is a masterpiece of Baroque design, adorned with gilded sculptures and intricate details. And keep an eye out for the many side altars, each dedicated to different saints and featuring beautiful paintings and carvings.

There is also the famous statue of St. Peter himself. It’s a bit quirky, because they are all dressed up in different outfits depending on the time of year.

But the real highlight of St. Peter’s is the tower. Yes, it’s a climb – nearly 300 steps – but, it’s worth it. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with the most spectacular panoramic views of Munich. You can see Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche, the Alps in the distance on a clear day, everything! It’s one of the best photo ops in the city.

Tower itself is a symbol of Munich, and its distinctive green dome is a familiar sight on the city skyline.

If the door is open, look inside too.