Münster Cathedral
Nordrhein-Westfalen
Münster Cathedral, officially known as St.-Paulus-Dom, is the cathedral church of the Catholic Diocese of Münster in Germany. Situated on the Horsteberg hill in the city center, it stands as one of Münster's most significant architectural and cultural landmarks alongside the City Hall. The current cathedral, built between 1225 and 1264, is the third iteration following two earlier cathedrals dating back to the Carolingian and Ottonian periods. Its architecture uniquely combines Romanesque elements, such as the westwerk and twin towers from the late 12th century, with a Gothic nave, transepts, high choir, and ring of chapels. The cathedral has served various roles over the centuries, including as a collegiate church, parish church, and diocesan seat. It houses the tomb of Clemens August Graf von Galen, a notable former bishop and cardinal who was beatified in 2005. The cathedral remains an active parish church and a focal point for religious ceremonies and community events in Münster.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the cathedral during weekdays when it is less crowded, and to consider joining one of the guided tours offered outside of service times for detailed insights. The cathedral is accessible for people with disabilities via a barrier-free entrance. Inductive hearing loops are available for visitors with hearing impairments. It is recommended to check the cathedral's official website for current opening hours and special events. Tickets for guided tours can be purchased in advance, and discounts may be available for groups and seniors.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral incorporates the Romanesque westwerk with its nearly identical twin towers from around 1192 into the later Gothic structure.
- •It houses the tomb of Clemens August Graf von Galen, a bishop beatified by Pope Benedict XVI in 2005.
- •The cathedral stands on the Horsteberg hill, which was historically the Domburg, the fortified area of Münster's old town.
- •Excavations revealed that the first Carolingian cathedral was larger than previously assumed, measuring approximately 27.6 meters wide and 31.2 meters long.
History
The first cathedral on the site was the Carolingian Ludgerus Dom, established in 805 by Bishop Liudger, serving as a collegiate church for monks living under the rule of Chrodegang.
This initial cathedral was a three-naved basilica located north of the current building.
The second cathedral, built in the 10th or 11th century during the Ottonian period, was constructed adjacent to the first and included the Romanesque westwerk built around 1192.
The present Gothic cathedral was constructed from 1225 to 1264, incorporating the westwerk of its predecessor.
Over time, the cathedral's parish role shifted, losing it in the 13th century and regaining it in the 19th century after the demolition of St.
Jacobi church.
The cathedral was heavily damaged during World War II and subsequently rebuilt, preserving its historical architectural styles.
Place Guide
Westwerk and Twin Towersc. 1192
The imposing Romanesque westwerk with two nearly identical towers was constructed around 1192 and forms the western facade of the cathedral. It is a prominent architectural feature blending Romanesque solidity with Gothic elements added later.
Gothic Nave and Transepts1225-1264
Built during the 13th century, the Gothic nave and transepts feature ribbed vaults and pointed arches characteristic of Gothic architecture, creating an airy and vertical interior space.
High Choir and Ring of Chapels13th century
The high choir and surrounding chapels form the eastern part of the cathedral, showcasing intricate Gothic designs and serving as important liturgical spaces.
Tomb of Clemens August Graf von Galen20th century
Located within the cathedral, this tomb commemorates the former Bishop of Münster who was beatified in 2005 and is an important religious and historical site.
Contact
Phone: 0251 4956700
