St. Peter's Church, Munich

St. Peter's Church is a parish church in Munich's old town district, combining Gothic and Baroque architectural elements that developed over centuries. The tower, known as Alter Peter, features eight clock faces and contains a viewing platform accessible from inside the church.

The church was founded in 1158 as Munich's first parish church, establishing its importance in the city's early religious life. A major city fire in 1327 destroyed parts of the building, leading to reconstructions that introduced Baroque elements alongside the original Gothic structure.

The church honors Saint Peter with a golden figure adorning the main altar, drawing believers and visitors to pray and light candles in its solemn interior. The space fills with soft light from stained glass windows, creating a place where people gather for worship and quiet reflection.

The church tower can be climbed via 306 steps to reach an observation deck with views across Munich and toward the Alps. Early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be less crowded, and the interior remains open for silent prayer outside of service times.

In the tower basement sits the Poor Sinner's Bell behind bars, which once rang during medieval executions at Marienplatz. This bell is a rare reminder of the city's harsh judicial past and remains hidden from casual view.

Location: Munich

Inception: June 27, 1954

Architects: Rudolf Esterer, Erwin Schleich, Anton Ignaz Gunetzrhainer, Isaak Pader

Official opening: 1294

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Address: Petersplatz

Phone: +4989210237760

Website: https://alterpeter.de

GPS coordinates: 48.13647,11.57601

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:04