Frankfurt Cathedral

Catholic church · Romerberg

Frankfurt Cathedral

Catholic church · Romerberg

2

Domplatz 1, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Photos

Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by Photo by rupp.de/Wikimedia Commons
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null
Frankfurt Cathedral by null

Highlights

Gothic cathedral, climb tower for city views, peaceful atmosphere  

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Domplatz 1, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Get directions

dom-frankfurt.de

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Domplatz 1, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Get directions

+49 69 2970320
dom-frankfurt.de
DompfarreiStBartholomaeus

Features

wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Aug 18, 2025

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@afar

9 Must-Visit Religious UNESCO Sites in Germany - AFAR

"A historically significant cathedral where several Roman emperors were crowned, offering insight into the imperial and ecclesiastical ceremonies that underscored the city's medieval importance." - AFAR

https://www.afar.com/magazine/nine-must-visit-religious-unesco-sites-in-germany
View Postcard for Frankfurt Cathedral
@afar

"Officially named the Emperor’s Cathedral of St. Bartholomew, Frankfurt’s main church is recognizable for its striking 328-foot-tall tower. Dating back to the 13th century, the cathedral is also famous for the fact that its Wahlkapelle (election chapel) served as the location for selecting Holy Roman emperors from the 14th to the 18th centuries. Rebuilt following an 1867 fire and again after World War II, the church features a traditional Romanesque cross-shaped floor plan and high altar decorated with a 15th-century retable depicting the life of Christ. Other highlights include the Maria Schlaf Altar in the Mary Chapel, created in 1434, and the choir stalls, which date all the way back to 1352. Added in the 15th century, the tower holds 328 steps, which visitors can climb for sweeping views of the city. There’s also a small on-site museum with precious liturgical objects, plus organ recitals and other concerts throughout the year."

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The Essential Guide to Frankfurt
View Postcard for Frankfurt Cathedral

Ola Kamzelska

Google
I'm not really into cathedrals or churches, but this one was really beautiful. The Gothic style really matched my style. Really nice work with rebuilding it after World War II. Even with many people you didn't have to wait to go inside. Definitely recommend that one.

César Fernández

Google
Stunning gothic church once used for the coronation of Holy Roman Emperors. Red sandstone tower offers panoramic views. Free entrance worth to visit but not at the level of other cathedrals in Europe that’s why I rate 4 stars and not 5

Mamata Bait

Google
Lucky to have visited it during Sunday Easter service. It was closed for tourists but open if paying mass . Was a very holy feeling to be inside the significant monument & witness the holy rituals . The tall beautiful pillars and golden altar looked amazing . But did not take pic in order to pay respect to the sentiments of the worshippers. But some pics from outside attached

Mustafa Arikan

Google
It was one of the best things to do in Frankfurt city center. The Dom itself is very beautiful and quiet and peaceful. Also there is a decent museum and you can visit it. But the top thing to do is to go up to the tower. Be aware that there are a lot of stairs but it is worth going up and seeing the panoramic view of the city.

Jade Anastasia Cocurullo

Google
Gorgeous cathedral, it wasn't very busy when we visited so we could enjoy the serenity of the church. We also climbed the tower for 3 euro, incredible views of the city! Need to have a good level of fitness though as lots of narrow stairs.

Dejan Braki

Google
On the old town Frankfurt panorama this is the most striking site. It rises high above medieval houses around, competing with corporate glass high rises in the modern part of town. But, this is a historic high rise, with a magnificent Gothic tower dating back to 14-15c. Of course, likewise all Germany it was rebuilt and renovated after WWII bombing and devastations. Because of the same reason the interiors are not that decorative, but rather with plain Gothic stone decorations. Entry is free, but there's a charge for the museum inside and climbing the tower (steps only, no elevator)

Zeeshan Qamar

Google
Majestic, Peaceful, and Rich with History – A Must-See in Frankfurt! The Frankfurt Cathedral, also known as Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus, is one of the most awe-inspiring landmarks in the city. Towering above the skyline with its distinctive Gothic architecture and reddish sandstone exterior, this cathedral is not only a spiritual site but a place deeply rooted in German imperial history. What makes this cathedral special is its powerful presence and serene atmosphere. Inside, you're greeted by stunning stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and soaring vaulted ceilings that leave you in quiet awe. It’s peaceful, calming, and truly makes you reflect — whether you're religious or not. Historically, it played a central role in the Holy Roman Empire, where emperors were elected and crowned, which adds a layer of significance that you can feel while walking through the nave or standing at the altar. Don’t miss the cathedral tower! Climbing the 300+ steps to the top is a bit of a workout, but the panoramic view of Frankfurt’s old town, the Main River, and the modern skyline is absolutely worth it. It's one of the best viewpoints in the entire city. Entry is free for the main cathedral, with a small fee for the tower climb and museum area. Everything is well-maintained and the staff are friendly and helpful. Photo Tip: Great shots of the exterior from Römerberg and the Main River — and the interior lighting is especially beautiful in the afternoon. A must-visit historical and cultural gem. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, religion, or just want to experience Frankfurt’s heart and soul, the Cathedral is unforgettable.

Tom Brennan

Google
It's worth visiting and just of the old town centre. It managed to survive the 1944 bombings when most of the surroundings were flattened. There is a museum separately if interested for 4 euro but you dont need tk pay anything to enter
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Shani H.

Yelp
Stopped in while perusing roomerberg. The church is gorgeous and huge. They had pamphlets in English for tourists which was helpful.
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Alisa J.

Yelp
Pretty church right in the historic center. There is also a museum attached next door.
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Sarah G.

Yelp
Full disclosure, I'm a sucker for old churches. Whenever I find myself in Europe I love to seek them out and explore to take in the art and architecture, as often in the old world churches and cathedrals housed some of the great cultural artifacts of the time. Dom St. Bartholomaus doesn't disappoint. It's a gorgeous church that's free to enter and walk around. If they are holding service you may need to wait until they are done, but it's worth it as this one is chock full of gorgeous artifacts and artworks to enjoy. If you love museums I recommend paying the very cheap entry fee - I think maybe two euros - to their small museum which is to the left as you enter. It's small, but houses some really amazing religious antiquities. Only pro tip I have is that like many church in Europe there are no public restrooms. If you're in Frankfurt there is no reason not to stop and take in this beautiful landmark!
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Nancy G.

Yelp
I've been to several cathedrals and churches in my life, and they never cease to amaze me. Saint Bartholomew's is no different! It was on my list of sites to see, so it was a pleasant surprise when the friends we were visiting in Frankfurt suggested we stop in and take a look. It is rather subdued inside, as far as the color pallet goes, but is stunning nonetheless. The statuary and artwork tower over you, to remind you of your diminutive size in the universe. It is an active church, so visitors should be respectful that there will be parishioners inside. The wait to climb the tower was a bit longer than we had time for, so we skipped it. I didn't see a gift shop, but there was a small table near the main entrance with literature of all sorts. Each item had a price and there was an unattended drop box for your "payment", but it was on the honor system. Considering that admission was free, I felt just fine dropping a few Euros in the cash box for the pamphlet about the history of the church that I took. If you're looking for a bit of solitude, or just a place to sit and reflect, this is a nice place right in the heart of the city. 12/2021
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Bruce K.

Yelp
One of the stops on our walking tour, the massive Frankfurt Cathedral (aka Dom St. Bartholomäus) is free to enter and tour. I did not even spot a donations box but I wasn't looking all that hard. Technically, it's not really a cathedral as it never had a bishop. Which is an interesting factoid that does nothing to detract from the immense power projected from this building that traces its history back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Emperors of the Holy Roman Empire were elected here and later, emperors-elect were crowned here. The building was severely damaged by Allied bombing raids during World War Two but has been majorly reconstructed. It is well worth a visit if you're being a tourist in Frankfurt.
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Jim R.

Yelp
Amazing from the outside a bit understated inside, this massive church is hard to miss. It's a bit tough to get the whole thing into a picture, but try strolling down to the river. Inside the sandstone is painted an unusual reddish color so it's unlike most gothic structures you will visit. The church is free to enter but they also have an attached museum you can see for an extra fee. To be honest, there's not all that much to look at inside although they do have a separate small museum (assuming that's where you can see the good stuff) and that requires a small fee. If you are up for an adventure, walk around outside towards the river. Not to be missed if your legs can endure, is a climb to the top of the tower-up 368 narrow spiral steps-for some amazing city views. It's strenuous and a bit tricky if you meet someone coming down but worth it. Extra fee to climb the tower is 3€. We did it on a coolish December Wednesday afternoon so there were only a couple of other folks, not sure I'd do it if it were too busy.
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Shannon S.

Yelp
This beautiful church was right next to my AirBNB so I had the pleasure of seeing the exterior several times during my stay. The interior has several areas of interest to view and it is still in active use with people praying and nuns going about their business. There was also a gift shop but it was closed during the times I went inside the church. There are so many taller buildings now in Frankfurt it actually is hard to see St. Bartholomew at much of a distance from many directions so using it as a visual navigation point doesn't work all the time so thank goodness for Google Maps and mobile phones these days. Overall this is certainly worthy of a visit and holds a lot of beautiful artwork and architectural value inside and out.
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Michael U.

Yelp
The third church built on its site, this one constructed during the 14th and 15th century, St. Bartholomew's is the main church of Frankfurt and although called a Cathedral by many apparently never actually a true cathedral but rather a "Kaiserdom" due to cultural relevance during the Holy Roman Empire. Highlights for those interested more in architecture than history include the gothic styling and rooftop offering panoramic views of the city for 3 Euros.
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David S.

Yelp
This cathedral, in the grand scheme of things, is actually quite small. In fact it looked no bigger than your ordinary, every day church. Maybe it has something to do with Frankfurt only really being of importance in recent years (that is it being home of the European Central Bank). The other annoying thing about the Cathedral is that it is actually pretty hard to get a good photo of the building, namely because there isn't actually an open plaza in front of it. Sure, you can see it, but first we have to navigate our way through the maze of streets and subway station to actually get there. That doesn't mean that it isn't a great place to visit because the inside, like a lot of the churches in Europe, is amazing. Just don't expect something huge.
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Ernest K.

Yelp
I avoided the potential long lines for the tower by going in the morning. I visited in the fall when it was rather cool. I can't imagine doing the climb during the summer heat. The mostly circular stone staircase is narrow. I'm not a fan of tight spaces, and so in a tiny corner of my mind, I was possibly freaking out. All that said, the tower climb is recommended if you can. The views are fantastic.
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Sam S.

Yelp
It's a stunning church and you can climb up the tower from the back of the church. There is a fee for climbing the tower and you can get a ticket next to the entrance for the tower stairs. The present church building is the third church on the same site. Since the late 19th century, excavations have revealed buildings that can be traced back to the 7th century. The history is closely linked with the general history of Frankfurt and Frankfurt's old town because the cathedral had an associated role as the religious counterpart of the Royal Palace in Frankfurt. A lot of this area is under renovation right now as the old city is in much need of repair and restoration. Well worth a visit when in town. You can read a lot of about the history inside the church itself.
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David J.

Yelp
Frankfurt's Cathedral is undoubtedly the city's principal historic site, and has played a major role in German history. Technically, however, it is not and never has been a Cathedral, since it has never been the seat of a Bishop. Originally the parish church of St Bartholemew, it was given the honorary title of 'Kaiserdom' or 'Imperial Cathedral' in the 18th century, to recognise the fact that German kings and emperors were elected here from 1152, and crowned here from 1562 until 1792. There has been a church here since around 680 AD, and immediately in front of the great tower is a sunken garden, with the restored remains of the first Roman settlement, as well as from the subsequent Frankish period. (Frankfurt gets its name from 'the ford of the Franks', as the lowest ford on the River Main). These include parts of one of the earlier churches, slightly west of the present site. The present building is actually the result of two major reconstructions since mediaeval times: the first, after a disastrous fire in 1867, and the second after the severe damage inflicted by Allied bombing in World War II. The form of the present building, however, dates largely from around 1250, when the church was enlarged in the early gothic style, with the choir and transepts added about a century later in decorated or high gothic style. The major exterior feature is the 95m high tower, although the splendid spire was actually added in 1867. It is a good example of a 'hall church', with spacious aisles as high as the main nave. Although it follows the usual basic cross plan, the nave is relatively short, and effectively forms a square plan with the wide aisles. The transepts are also wide and deep, almost as wide as the church is long. But the main architectural effects are the height throughout the building, and the deep red paint which colours the walls (intended to look like stone, with the 'mortar' picked out in white). But the interest really lies in its extensive late mediaeval furnishings. The first of these is the Crucifixion in the tower hall, executed by the Mainz sculptor Hans Backhoffen in 1509. Pride of place must then be fought between the Maria-Schaf altarpiece in the Mairenkapelle, dating from 1434 (and the only alterpiece that was actually constructed for the church), and the huge canvas of the 'Lamentation of Christ' by Van Dyck in the North Transept, completed in 1627. The main high alterpiece is an elaborate gothic altar from the 15th century originally from the church in Salzwedel. Numerous 16th century altars from other churches in Germany are found in the transepts and in the Chapel of the Tomb of our Lord, the result of assiduous collecting by the late 19th century pastor, Münzenberger. They are all of high quality and have been well preserved, and together they form an important collection of late gothic German religious art. Other items of interest include the magnificant memorial to Count Günther von Schwarzburg, elected as king in Frankfurt in 1349, although he abdicated and died in the same year. It depicts him in full mediaeval armour, holding an enormous jousting helm, and surrounded by heraldic shields. Finally, in the south transept is a rather inconscipuous 15th-century reliquary, opened only on holy days: this is said to contain a remnant of the skull of the apostle St Bartholemew himself.
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Joseph K.

Yelp
The Kaiser Dom is definitely worth a visit. While it is much more impressive from the outside, the interior does have an impressive organ and a few ornate relief carvings. I always enjoy looking at the plaque that shows the building's progression from a small chapel in the 7th century to the massive cathedral that stands today. Don't miss the back garden, which is often overlooked by visitors. Top Three Highlights: 1.) Free admission into the church 2.) Small museum attached (historical garments and texts, etc.) 3.) Climbing the tower available for a nominal fee
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Kurt S.

Yelp
Very cool church. It's a very large church that is extremely old. The inside is amazing with all of the original walls. The giant organ is very cool to see and hear as well.
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Jessica S.

Yelp
A really amazing, really old church. A must if you are visiting Frankfurt. Located next to the river, this is in the prime spot for walking around downtown. There were a lot of tourists here which made it difficult to take pictures. Everything was also in German. For a little extra, you can pay to walk up the 300+ steps to get an incredible city view.
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Dominique F.

Yelp
There were a lot of days when I was walking around downtown by myself where I just decided to come in here and sit down and just think of nothing. and it was awesome. I've seen other Doms in Germany and Europe though that I consider my favs hence the 4 stars review.
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Christine G.

Yelp
Definitely worth a visit while in Frankfurt. It's close to the Old Town and the cathedral is open to the public for free. If you go to the viewing platform, it's 3 Euro and 320+ steps, but it's worth it for the view!! The exterior is absolutely stunning and I'm amazed at all the work. The interior has so much detail in the sculptures and wall work. If you have time, come over and admire it
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Sushi S.

Yelp
One-in-every-city kind of church. Climbable, if sadist.
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Carolyn D.

Yelp
Amazing and beautiful if you can climb all 328 stairs the view is amazing and the inside is full of amazing history.