Boasting a towering spire measuring 161 meters, the Ulm Minster in Germany stands as the world’s tallest church. This remarkable example of Gothic architecture draws tourists globally. Sport.Bangjo.co.id explores the rich history behind this iconic German landmark.
For many centuries, the Ulm Cathedral (known as Ulmer Münster in German) has served as the iconic emblem of the city and a representation of the former magnificence of the German Empire. The construction of this magnificent structure commenced in 1377 when Ulm held status as an imperial city. It gained widespread recognition primarily due to its towering spire, soaring up to 161.53 meters, though this feature remained unfinished until 1890.
Traveling to Germany? Here are some pieces to assist you with planning out your trip:
- 5 Enchanted Forests to Discover in Germany
- The top 5 most romantic spots to visit in Germany
- 5 stunning castles to explore in Germany
The Ulm Cathedral, an underappreciated landmark
In the region of Baden-Württemberg in southern Germany, Ulm stands out as a charming city worthy of exploration! Nestled along the banks of the Danube, this town is renowned for its picturesque Black Forest, quaint waterways, and historical buildings which juxtapose strikingly against modern structures. Additionally, Ulm boasts a Protestant church known for having the highest steeple globally. This impressive structure was completed towards the end of the 19th century. th In the course of several centuries since its completion, this massive tower dominates the entire town! Visitors have the option to ascend the 768 stairs all the way up to an observation deck situated at a height of 143 meters, where they can relish the sweeping vista of the city and the Danube River below.
Nevertheless, the Ulm Minster fails to share the same level of renown as some of its European peers like the 108-meter-tall Milan Cathedral, and the 132-meter-tall St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Notre-Dame Cathedral In Paris, featuring a towering 96-meter-high spire, this church sits on Münsterplatz (cathedral square). After the Reformation, it became a Protestant place of worship. It contrasts sharply with the predominantly modern architectural style prevalent throughout the rest of the city.
Time for some history!
In 1377, the task of building Ulm Cathedral began under the supervision of Heinrich Parler, a renowned German architect. After his death in 1387, his descendants took over the responsibility for completing the cathedral. Originally, according to Parler's designs, two side aisles were planned. However, during the subsequent hundred years, several modifications occurred, leading to significant alterations from the initial plan. Among these changes was the addition of an extra aisle. Yet, when religious reformations swept across Europe with great speed around 1543, progress on the construction halted abruptly.
The construction of the cathedral remained halted for about three hundred years until it resumed in 1844. By 1890, the impressive 161-meter tall bell tower had been finished, claiming the title of the world's tallest at that time. Meanwhile, the cathedral boasts two additional towers standing at 86 meters each.
The cathedral also stands out due to its expansive space. Stretching over 123 meters in length and spanning 49 meters in width, it has the capacity for up to 20,000 individuals. The interior features an array of Gothic-style stained-glass windows adorning the walls; several have retained their originality since medieval times, illustrating depictions such as the Virgin Mary alongside her mother, St. Anne, episodes from Jesus' birth, images of Christ, among others. Throughout the Second World War, this structure managed to evade destruction during the Allied bombings that obliterated much of the surrounding city. Nonetheless, certain nineteenth-century stained-glass panels did not survive and had to be substituted with plain glass.
Our website uses cookies to improve your experience. Learn more