Prince-Bishop's Residence, Religious architectural monument in Freising, Germany.
The Prince-Bishop's Residence is a three-story structure with four wings displaying Renaissance features, including two-story arcaded galleries on its north and east sides. A chapel occupies the northeast tower, while the building now serves as an educational center called Cardinal Döpfner House.
The residence began as a bishop's castle in 1314 and underwent major reconstruction between 1607 and 1622 to become a Renaissance palace. This transformation marked the shift from a medieval fortress to a representative seat of princely power.
The Fürstengang, a covered corridor linking the residence to the Cathedral, shows how closely the bishop's life was connected to religious duties. This passage still shapes how visitors and residents move through the space today.
The building operates today as Cardinal Döpfner House, hosting educational programs and religious instruction. Check in advance which areas are open to visitors, as parts of the complex are used for ongoing activities.
The complex preserves a medieval kitchen area that was renovated in the 17th century and expanded with a dining hall in 1884. These spaces reveal how the living standards of the bishops evolved across different periods.
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