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Erfurt Cathedral & Severikirche
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Historical site
Erfurt Cathedral (St. Mary's), together with the neighboring St. Severus Church, forms a globally unique architectural ensemble on the Cathedral Hill in the center of the Thuringian state capital. The cathedral's origins date back to the time of St. Boniface in the 8th century, while the current building is significantly defined by Gothic architecture. Particularly impressive are the High Choir with its 18-meter-high late Gothic stained glass windows and the monumental grand staircase with 70 steps leading down to the Cathedral Square. A special treasure is the 'Gloriosa', the world's largest free-swinging medieval bell, hanging in the middle of the three towers. Inside, the cathedral houses the Wolfram candlestick, one of Germany's oldest freestanding cast bronze figures. Historically significant is also the connection to Martin Luther, who was ordained as a priest here in 1507. The ensemble of the cathedral and St. Severus Church is not only a religious center but also the venue for the annual Cathedral Steps Festival.
- Location: Thuringia, Germany
- Top sights: DASDIE Brettl · DASDIE Stage · Galerie Cardemil
- Nearby: Arnstadt (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 14 | 9 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 51 | 37 | 44 | 35 | 68 | 60 | 77 | 61 | 56 | 48 | 54 | 54 |
📋 Practical info
Address
Domstufen 1, 99084 Erfurt
Hours
Mon-Sat 09:30-18:00, Sun 13:00-18:00 (restricted during mass)
Entry
free (tour to the Gloriosa bell €5)
Website
Transit
Tram lines 2, 3, 6 (stop Domplatz)
Parking
Underground garage Domplatz right under the square (~€2/hr).
Accessibility
Accessible via the barrier-free side entrance, cathedral steps are very steep.
Photos
Allowed outside of mass times without flash.
Best time
During the blue hour for the illumination of the cathedral steps.
Audio guide
no
History & landmarks
middle-ages
1154–1497
Geography
Facts
- The 'Gloriosa' bell weighs 11.45 tons and was cast in the year 1497.
- Martin Luther was ordained as a priest in Erfurt Cathedral on April 3, 1507.
- The 13 late Gothic stained glass windows in the choir are 18 meters high.
- The Wolfram candlestick dates back to around 1160.
- The monumental grand staircase to the Cathedral Square consists of 70 steps.
- The cathedral features impressive 14th-century choir stalls with 89 seats.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Erfurt Cathedral & Severikirche (10)
DASDIE LIVE
DASDIE LIVE in Erfurt is a venue for live music and events.
Kurmainzische Statthalterei
Kurmainzische Statthalterei in Erfurt is a historic château from the 18th century.
KulturQuartier
KulturQuartier in Erfurt combines a theatre and cultural centre under one roof.
Galerie am Hirschgarten
Galerie am Hirschgarten in Erfurt presents rotating art exhibitions.
Luftschutzkeller🏛 museum
The Luftschutzkeller in Erfurt is a preserved air-raid shelter from World War II.
Sankt Crucis
Sankt Crucis is a church in Thuringia, Germany, with medieval origins.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How many steps lead up to Erfurt Cathedral?
There are a total of 70 steps (Domstufen) connecting the cathedral square with the cathedral hill.
What is special about the Gloriosa bell?
The Gloriosa is the world's largest free-swinging medieval bell and is only rung on major feast days.
Which church stands right next to the cathedral?
St. Severus Church stands right next to the cathedral and forms a unique architectural ensemble with it.
What role did Martin Luther play in Erfurt Cathedral?
Martin Luther was ordained as a priest in Erfurt Cathedral in 1507.
Can you visit the cathedral during services?
Visiting is not allowed during services; please check the service schedule in advance.
Erfurt Cathedral & Severikirche: where is it located?
Erfurt Cathedral & Severikirche is located in Thuringia, Germany.
Erfurt Cathedral & Severikirche: what is there to see?
Highlights include DASDIE Brettl, DASDIE Stage, Galerie Cardemil.
Erfurt Cathedral & Severikirche: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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