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Erfurt Cathedral Travel Guide

Kawser AhmedByKawser Ahmed Published Updated
Erfurt Cathedral

Erfurt Cathedral—or Erfurter Dom if you wanna sound fancy. This Gothic beast has been chilling on its hill since the 8th century, and trust me, it’s a show-off. The spires shoot up so high you’ll crane your neck just to gawk at them, and inside? Stained glass from the 14th century that’s basically a kaleidoscope on steroids. Oh, and Martin Luther got ordained here—yep, that Luther.

The Erfurt Cathedral, officially known as Hohe Domkirche St. Marien zu Erfurt, is a magnificent Gothic cathedral situated on Cathedral Hill (Domberg) in Erfurt, Germany. As the largest and oldest church building in Thuringia, it serves as the episcopal seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Erfurt.​

History

  • Origins: The site has been a place of Christian worship since 742 when Saint Boniface established a church here. The current Gothic structure primarily dates from the 14th and 15th centuries.​
  • Notable Events: In 1507, Martin Luther was ordained as a priest in this cathedral, marking a significant moment in the history of the Reformation.​

Architectural Overview

  • Gothic Design: The cathedral showcases a blend of architectural styles, with a high Gothic choir, Romanesque tower area, and a late Gothic west hall.​
  • Stained Glass Windows: The choir boasts impressive stained glass windows from the 14th century, many of which have survived intact since the Middle Ages.​
  • Maria Gloriosa Bell: Housed in the central tower, this bell, cast in 1497, is the world’s largest medieval free-swinging bell and is renowned for its pure tone.​
  • Interior Artifacts: Visitors can admire the 14th-century choir stalls, a Romanesque stucco altar from around 1160, and a monumental candle bearer known as the “Erfurter Wolfram,” considered the oldest free-standing cast work in Germany.

Entrance Ticket Price

  • Entry to Erfurt Cathedral is free.
  • Guided tours, including the climb to see the Gloriosa bell, are available for a small fee. Check the cathedral’s official website https://www.dom-erfurt.de/ for details for the latest information. 

Erfurt Cathedral Opening Hours

  • Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 
  • Sunday: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. 
  • Note: Visiting hours may be shorter during the winter. 

How to Get There

  • Location: Erfurt Cathedral is located on the Domplatz (Cathedral Square). 
  • Public Transport:
    • From Erfurt Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), take trams 3, 4, or 6 to Domplatz.
    • Tram lines 3, 4, and 6 also stop at Anger and Fischmarkt/Rathaus, which are near the Cathedral Square.
    • You can also take a tram from Anger to Domplatz Nord. 
  • Walking: The cathedral is a 70-step climb from Domplatz. If you’re unable to climb the stairs, use the street around the cathedral for access. 

Where to Eat

  • Restaurant Schnitzler Erfurt: Offers schnitzel dishes and outdoor seating with cathedral views. 
  • Wirtshaus am Dom: Serves homestyle sausage, potato dishes, and seafood. 
  • Zum Wenigemarkt 13: A tavern with Thuringian regional dishes and a patio. 
  • Wirtshaus Christoffel: A medieval-themed beer hall with German dishes and local brews. 
  • Hofbräu am Dom: Offers Bavarian and German cuisine. 

Tips: There are many restaurants and cafes located around the Domplatz and in the surrounding area. 

Erfurt Cathedral Tour Tips

  • Admire the Architecture: Note the Gothic choir, Romanesque tower area, and late Gothic west hall. 
  • See the Gloriosa: If you’re taking a guided tour, don’t miss the chance to see the Maria Gloriosa, the world’s largest medieval free-swinging bell. 
  • Explore St. Severus Church: Located next to the cathedral, it’s worth exploring the three towers and five naves of the neighboring St. Severus Church. 
  • Check for Events: Look out for organ concerts, masses, or special events like the Cathedral Steps Theatre Festival. Check the official website http://www.dom-erfurt.de/ for details. 
  • Guided Tours: Enhance your visit with a guided tour (usually in German) to learn more about the history and architecture. 
  • Consider the “Outdoor Tour”: If the weather is nice, follow the “Sporty outdoor tour” for a unique experience. 
  • Visit the Christmas Market: During the winter, the Domplatz is home to a vibrant Christmas market, adding to the festive atmosphere. 

Nearby Attractions

  • St. Severus Church: Adjacent to the cathedral, this early Gothic hall church complements the cathedral’s grandeur and is part of the unique architectural ensemble on Cathedral Hill.​
  • Domplatz (Cathedral Square): This expansive square hosts various events throughout the year, including the renowned Erfurt Christmas Market.​
  • Petersberg Citadel: A short walk from the cathedral, this well-preserved baroque fortress offers panoramic views of Erfurt and insights into the city’s military history.
  • Krämerbrücke (Merchant’s Bridge): A unique medieval bridge lined with half-timbered houses, now home to artisan workshops, shops, and cafes. 
Erfurt Cathedral on Map

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