Frauenkirche
Frauenkirche is Munich's landmark.
The official name is Dom zu unserer lieben Frau in München.
The impressive two towers of our cathedrale capture everyone - tourists and locals alike. The presence of the Frauenkirche is felt and seen almost anywhere in Munich, and it's the number one must-visit Munich attraction when you come here.
Most Bavarians, religious or not, regard the cathedral as an emblem of our steadfast nature and enduring perseverance in times of trouble and strife. The church has become the symbol of our city many years ago.
Nowaday it's even the "limit to the sky", as no other building within the Mittlerer Ring is allowed to be higher than the Frauenkirche, out of fear to ruin Munich's skyline.
One of the Towers Survived World War II
So, why does this place mean so much to the people of Munich and of Bavaria?
For starters, it is distinct. The two towers are distinct and even though the church itself is often under construction, a labor of love designed to make the dome last for centuries, it is definitely a striking cathedral.
But there is more to it than that. During World War II, the city was pummeled with air strikes. Though a good portion of the city was destroyed and needed to be rebuilt, one of the two towers survived the attacks. It is said to have lifted the spirits of those who survived the war.
Construction for the church began in 1468. The legendary towers were completed twenty years later in 1488. The cathedral was consecrated by the Roman Catholic Church in 1494. After World War II was over, the Frauenkirche was restored to its original glory and was officially completed in 1994.
Climb the Tower
After visiting the breathtaking inside of the church, don't forget to climb one of the towers which offers excellent views of the city. Even though the view from Alter Peter right across Marienplatz is better, I still enjoy it here, just because it gives me a great and peaceful feeling to stand high above Munich on our city's landmark.
Attention: Due to construction work the tower is closed until 2016! No accessto the viewing platform possible.
Devils' Footprint
Wolfgang Dirscherl / pixelio.de
The Teufelsschritt, known as “the Devil’s Footprint” is a remnant of the Cathedral’s original interior. For me, it is a reminder of the city, and the church’s past.
So, why do I like visiting the Frauenkirche? Because, when I am here, I am reminded of the ultimate hopefulness that arises out of the ashes after a major war. Modern day Munich looks nothing like the bomb-flattened city that it once was. Thanks to the efforts of those who strove to preserve the good, we can enjoy sites like this cathedral.
As you can see, the Frauenkirche is a must-see stop if you come to visit Munich. On a hot day it's fantastic to sit down in front of the entrance portal near the water and take in the stunning sight for a while, before entering the church.
It is open daily from 7:00 to 19:00 except on thursdays, when it is open until 20:30 and fridays until 18:00. Feel free to enter and pay your respects during those times.
To get there, it is an easy walk from Marienplatz. All S-bahn routes lead to Marienplatz as well as the U6 and U3 lines. Other nearby stops include Odeonsplatz and Karlsplatz/Stachus.
Mighty organ in the Frauenkirche
From Marienplatz you can either stop into the tourist information center to grab a map or ask for directions. You can also ask someone for directions or simply look for the two tours and let yourself wander. The easiest way, however, is to grab a map.
