Summary
Whether you’re making a spiritual pilgrimage or simply wish to marvel at their majestic architecture, Germany’s churches are among the most spectacular sights the country has to offer. Steeped in history, cathedrals and churches in Germany offer insights into the past; some have stood untouched for over a thousand years, while others reflect the scars of war, reminding visitors of Germany’s turbulent history.
On top of visiting these historic sites, consider planning your visit around a service for an unforgettable experience filled with tradition, music, and an overwhelming sense of awe. Discover the seven best churches in Germany for a remarkable religious experience.
Cathedral of Cologne
Kölner Dom or Cathedral of Cologne, is one of Germany’s most important architectural monuments and the third tallest cathedral in the world. It took over 600 years to build this Gothic masterpiece, completed in 1880, adhering to the original plans from 1248.
The Cathedral’s most precious works of art include the Shrine of the Three Kings, a jewel-studded golden sarcophagus; the Gero Cross, which is the oldest surviving crucifix north of the Alps; and the “Milan Madonna,” a graceful wooden sculpture from the 13th century. The entire site is so breathtaking that it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Church of Our Lady in Dresden
The Dresden Frauenkirche has a compelling history. Erected in 1726, it was tragically destroyed during World War II. The air raids devastated Dresden’s city center and left the Church of Our Lady collapsed into a mountain of rubble. The ruins remained untouched for over 40 years, serving as a somber reminder of the war’s destructive power.
In the 1980s, the ruins became a gathering point for the East German peace movement; thousands gathered here to peacefully protest against the regime.
Reconstruction of the church began in 1994, primarily funded through private donations. In 2005, the people of Dresden celebrated the revival of their Frauenkirche.
Wieskirche
Located in the foothills of the Alps along the Romantic Road, the pilgrimage church Wieskirche (“Church in the Meadow”) is regarded as one of the most beautiful rococo churches in Europe. Established in the 18th century, it is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, designed by the Zimmermann brothers, with Dominikus Zimmermann even building a small house next to the church to live in until his death.
The church houses the statue of the Scoured Savior, which is said to have shed tears—a miracle that attracts millions of pilgrims annually.
Kaiser-Wilhelm Memorial Church in Berlin
The Protestant Memorial Church of Berlin (Gedaechtniskirche) is situated along the renowned shopping boulevard, Kudamm. It stands as one of the city’s most famous landmarks with a turbulent past.
During World War II, the church suffered extensive damage due to an air raid, leading to the destruction of much of the building and its towers. Remarkably, the entrance hall and one spire were preserved as a war memorial. Today, visitors can explore the semi-preserved hall and admire historical artifacts from the church.
A new modern church with blue stained glass windows and a free-standing hexagonal bell tower was constructed in the 1960s alongside the original church, maintaining its role as a sacred space.
This square also hosts a vibrant Christmas market and was the site of a devastating terrorist attack in 2016, where a truck plowed into a festive crowd. Memorials of fresh flowers and candles remain outside of the church in remembrance.
Another noteworthy Berlin church is the Cathedral of Berlin on Museum Island, especially captivating during Christmas Eve.
Church of Our Lady in Munich
The Catholic Church of Our Blessed Lady (Frauenkirche) is a prominent landmark in Munich, being the city’s largest church, capable of accommodating up to 20,000 individuals.
Built in 1494 in an astonishing 20 years, this late Gothic brick cathedral features domes modeled after the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem.
Ulm Minster
Ulm is home to the tallest church in the world—Ulm Minster, featuring spires that rise to 162 meters (531 feet).
The foundation stone for this pinnacle of Gothic architecture was laid in 1377 and it took over 600 years until the main steeple was completed. Climb the 768 steps to the observation platform for breathtaking views of the Alps and Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze.
Cathedral of Mainz
The six-towered Roman Catholic Cathedral of Mainz towers over the rooftops of the Old Town, representing one of the most significant Romanesque structures along the Rhine. Originally built over 1,000 years ago, the cathedral showcases multiple architectural styles, incorporating Gothic windows and Baroque elements over the centuries.
Additionally, St. Stephan’s Church in Mainz is noteworthy for its stunning luminous stained glass windows, featuring eight hues of blue, created by the renowned Russian Jewish artist Marc Chagall.
