Veröffentlicht von The Frauenkirche (Cathedral of Our Dear Lady) is the most famous church in Munich and one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. With its two distinctive green domes rising above the Old Town skyline, the Frauenkirche defines Munich’s silhouette.
Picture: © Manfred Steinbach – Fotolia.com
Located just a few steps from Marienplatz, the cathedral is a must-see for visitors interested in history, architecture and panoramic views. Even if you spend only a short time inside, the Frauenkirche is an essential part of any Munich itinerary.
This guide covers:
- The history of the Frauenkirche
- Architectural highlights
- The famous “Devil’s Footprint” legend
- Tower views and visitor tips
- How to combine it with nearby attractions
Munich Old Town Guided Tours
The Frauenkirche is included in most walking tours through the Old Town. A guide explains its Gothic architecture and famous legends.
History of the Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche was built between 1468 and 1488 in the late Gothic style. Remarkably, the construction of this massive brick church took only about 20 years – an impressive achievement for that time.
The cathedral became the seat of the Archbishop of Munich and Freising and remains an important religious center today.
During World War II, the building suffered heavy damage from bombing. The church was carefully restored in the decades after the war, preserving its historical appearance.
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Architecture and Exterior
The Frauenkirche is built primarily from red brick, a typical feature of late Gothic architecture in southern Germany. The two towers rise about 99 meters high.
The onion-shaped domes (often called “Welsche Hauben”) were added in the early 16th century and give the cathedral its unmistakable look.
Munich has a long-standing rule limiting the height of new buildings in the city center to preserve views of the Frauenkirche towers.
Interior Highlights
Inside, the Frauenkirche feels surprisingly simple and spacious compared to richly decorated Baroque churches such as the Theatiner Church.
Main highlights include:
- The high Gothic vaults
- The main altar
- Side chapels with historical artworks
- The tomb of Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian
The interior’s simplicity creates a calm and dignified atmosphere.
The Devil’s Footprint (Teufelstritt)
One of the most famous features of the Frauenkirche is the “Devil’s Footprint.” Near the entrance, you can see a black mark shaped like a footprint.
According to legend, the devil helped finance the church’s construction under the condition that it would have no windows. When he entered and stood at a specific spot, the columns blocked the view of the windows, making it appear dark.
Believing he had succeeded, the devil stamped his foot in anger when he realized he had been tricked.
Whether true or not, the footprint is one of the cathedral’s most photographed details.
Climbing the South Tower
If open to visitors, climbing the south tower offers one of the best panoramic views over Munich. From the top, you can see:
- Marienplatz and the New Town Hall
- The Alps on clear days
- The Olympic Park in the distance
The climb requires some effort, but the view is worth it.
How Long Should You Plan?
- 20–30 minutes: Quick interior visit
- 45–60 minutes: Include tower climb
- Half day: Combine with Marienplatz and Residence
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning for fewer crowds
- Midday for Glockenspiel at nearby Marienplatz
- Clear days for tower views
Always respect religious services and maintain silence inside.
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How to Get There
The Frauenkirche is centrally located in the Old Town:
- U-Bahn and S-Bahn: Marienplatz
- Short walk from Odeonsplatz
More transport information:
Stay in Munich’s Old Town
Hotels near Marienplatz and the Frauenkirche offer the best location for sightseeing in Munich.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Iconic Munich landmark
- Central location
- Free entry (tower ticket separate)
- Historic and architectural significance
Cons
- Often crowded
- Interior simpler than some Baroque churches
Is the Frauenkirche Worth Visiting?
Yes. The Frauenkirche is the symbol of Munich and an essential stop in the Old Town. Whether you admire Gothic architecture, enjoy city views or are curious about local legends, the cathedral offers something for every visitor.
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