St. Konrad und Elisabeth

St. Konrad und Elisabeth is an expressionist church in Freiburg featuring bold geometric shapes and raw concrete surfaces. The building contains a walkable labyrinth in the choir area with seven circuits marked by polished plates arranged in a cross pattern.

The building was completed in 1929 under architect Carl Anton Meckel and ranks among the first religious structures built entirely in exposed concrete. This expressionist style represented an unconventional approach to church architecture at the time.

The fourteen side windows created by artist Paul Hirt display the rosary mysteries through sequences of colored glass. Visitors experience this visual spiritual narrative as they move through the church.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since exploring the labyrinth and interior involves movement through the space. The geometric forms and concrete surfaces are best appreciated in daylight when sunlight streams through the windows.

A fascinating design feature involves a reflection system where the Christ figure from the choir window mirrors onto dark plates within the labyrinth below. This subtle optical detail connects the artistic installation with the walkable space in an unexpected way.

Location: Freiburg im Breisgau

Inception: 1929

Architects: Carl Anton Meckel

Architectural style: expressionist architecture

Made from material: concrete

GPS coordinates: 48.00870,7.84958

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:04