Oberkirche, Gothic church ruins in Bad Frankenhausen, Germany
The Oberkirche is a Gothic church building with massive stone walls, pointed arch windows, and a distinctive leaning tower in Thuringia. The structure displays characteristic medieval architecture of the region through its complex layout and prominent stone facade.
The church was completed in 1382 and suffered severe damage during the Peasants' War in 1525 through violent conflict. Subsequent conflicts over the centuries left additional marks on the building's structure.
The church witnessed religious transformation in the region as local worship shifted from Catholic to Protestant traditions. Visitors can observe how this change is reflected in the building's design, where traces of different faiths coexist.
The tower is currently undergoing comprehensive restoration work until March 2025 and access may be limited during this time. Future visitor facilities and parking are being planned to improve access to the site once work is complete.
The tower displays a remarkable overhang of about 4.6 meters from its vertical axis, making it stand out among German towers. This distinctive lean is the result of historical damage and ground settlement over centuries.
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