Frauenkirche Cathedral

This is Munich’s largest and most famous church, it can hold up to 20,000 people. Built between 1468 and 1525 on the remains of an old Romanesque basilica, this cathedral is a striking example of 15th-century Gothic architecture. Its most distinctive features are the two towers, rising nearly 100 metres high. They’re topped with green, Renaissance-style domes that contrast beautifully with the red brick of the church. One of the towers is open to visitors, and offers stunning panoramic views over the city. If you step inside the cathedral, you’ll spot the mysterious Devil’s Footprint on the floor, the centrepiece of one of Munich’s most famous legends. According to the tale, the Devil made a deal with the architect of this cathederal, who promised that the structure would be built without any windows. Once construction was complete, the Devil stepped into the cathedral. At first glance, it seemed the deal had been honoured. But after moving past the columns, he realised he’d been tricked: the windows were cleverly concealed. Enraged, he stomped the ground, leaving a footprint in the middle of the hall. In a fit of fury, he transformed into a violent wind, determined to destroy the church. So if you feel a sudden breeze in the square... now you know why. Though the cathedral withstood the Devil’s wind, it suffered serious damage during the Second World War, and bombs destroyed most of its interior. It was later rebuilt and restored with a simpler, more understated décor. Today, the cathedral houses the tombs of several prominent figures, including Emperor Louis IV of Bavaria. Its towers have stood the test of time and remain a symbol of the city. In fact, no building in Munich is allowed to rise higher than the cathedral.