Background

Bonn Minster: A Romanesque Masterpiece

Discover the Bonn Minster, a magnificent Romanesque basilica in the heart of Bonn, Germany, showcasing centuries of history, art, and religious significance through its stunning architecture and sacred atmosphere.

4.5

The Bonn Minster, or Minster of St. Martin, is a stunning Romanesque church in the heart of Bonn, Germany, a city steeped in history. With origins tracing back to the 11th century, this basilica stands as one of Germany's oldest churches, showcasing a captivating blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Its iconic twin towers dominate Bonn's skyline, serving as a testament to centuries of religious and cultural significance. Explore the Minster's rich interior, adorned with beautiful frescoes, stained-glass windows, and the crypt housing the remains of saints. Located on Münsterplatz, the Minster is easily accessible and surrounded by the city's vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-see landmark for any visitor seeking to delve into Bonn's past and experience its architectural grandeur. The church is more than just a religious site; it's a historical and artistic treasure.

A brief summary to Minster of St. Martin's

Local tips

  • Check the Minster's website for the schedule of services and concerts, as attending one can enhance your experience.
  • Explore the crypt to see the remains of Saints Cassius and Florentius, Bonn's patron saints.
  • Visit the Münsterplatz surrounding the Minster to experience the vibrant atmosphere and see the Beethoven Monument.
  • Take your time to admire the blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, both inside and outside the church.
  • Photography is allowed inside the Minster, but it's important to be respectful of the sacred space and avoid using flash photography.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Bonn Minster is centrally located on Münsterplatz, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in Bonn's city center. From the Bonn Hauptbahnhof (main train station), exit the station and walk straight ahead, crossing Poststraße. Continue onto Münsterplatz; the Minster will be directly in front of you. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and well-signposted. Note that Münsterplatz is a pedestrian zone.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by tram or bus, several lines stop near Münsterplatz. Tram lines 61, 62, 65, 66 and 68 stop at Bertha-von-Suttner-Platz/Beethovenhaus or Universität/Markt station, both a short walk to Münsterplatz. From either stop, follow signs towards the city center (Zentrum) and the prominent towers of the Minster. A single ticket for a short trip (Kurzstrecke) within Bonn costs approximately €2.20.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that the Bonn Minster is located in a pedestrian zone with limited direct vehicle access. Several parking garages are located nearby, including Marktgarage (Stockenstraße 19), Friedensplatzgarage (Oxfordstraße 21), Münsterplatzgarage (Budapester Straße 5), and Stadthausgarage (Weiherstraße 6). Parking fees typically range from €1.80 per hour, with a daily maximum of around €20. From any of these garages, follow pedestrian signs to Münsterplatz and the Minster.

Unlock the Best of Minster of St. Martin's

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Minster of St. Martin's

The Bonn Minster, officially the Minster of St. Martin, is a captivating testament to centuries of religious devotion and architectural evolution. Rising majestically from Münsterplatz in the heart of Bonn, Germany, this Romanesque basilica stands as one of the nation's oldest churches, its history interwoven with the very fabric of the city. Construction of the present church began around 1050, with the structure taking shape between the 11th and 13th centuries. However, the site's sacred history stretches back much further. The Minster stands on the grounds where Roman soldiers Cassius and Florentius, who became the patron saints of Bonn, were believed to have been martyred around 235 AD. Legend says that St. Helena, mother of Constantine, erected a memorial shrine here in the 4th century. Archaeological excavations reveal that the basilica is built upon the site of a Roman temple and necropolis. Over the centuries, the Minster has undergone numerous expansions and renovations, resulting in its unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. The imposing twin towers, added in the 13th century, have become iconic symbols of Bonn, piercing the skyline and serving as a constant reminder of the city's rich heritage. The church has five towers in all: square flanking towers on the east end, a round central tower, and two slender turrets on the west end. Inside, the Minster unfolds as a treasure trove of artistic and historical wonders. The spacious nave is illuminated by stained-glass windows, casting colorful patterns across the stone floor. Intricate stone carvings adorn the walls, while the high altar stands as a masterpiece of Baroque art, embellished with gold leaf and marble sculptures. The church also houses one of the first organs in Germany, dating back to 1230. The Minster's crypt is a particularly fascinating area to explore. This dimly lit labyrinth of corridors and chambers houses the remains of Saints Cassius and Florentius, as well as other martyrs. Frescoes and decorative elements adorn the crypt's walls, offering a glimpse into the artistic styles of centuries past. The crypt is normally reserved for prayer. Beyond its architectural and artistic merits, the Bonn Minster holds significant historical importance. For a time, it served as the de facto cathedral for the Archbishopric of Cologne, as it was the main church of the Archbishop-Elector's residence. The basilica has suffered damage throughout the years, including during World War II, but has always been lovingly restored. Today, the Bonn Minster continues to serve as a place of worship and a symbol of the city's enduring spirit. Visitors can attend services, explore the church's many historical and artistic features, and learn about its fascinating past. The Minster also hosts concerts and other cultural events throughout the year, further cementing its role as a vital center of community life. The area surrounding the Minster, Münsterplatz, is a vibrant hub of activity. The square hosts markets, festivals, and other events throughout the year. The Beethoven Monument, a bronze statue honoring Bonn's most famous son, stands proudly on the square, and the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) provides a picturesque backdrop for many events. A visit to the Bonn Minster is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the religious, artistic, and historical heart of Bonn. Whether you are drawn to its architectural grandeur, its artistic treasures, or its spiritual significance, the Minster is sure to leave a lasting impression. While visiting, take note of the large sculpted heads of the Roman martyrs Cassius and Florentius, the patron saints of Bonn. They were sculpted in 2002 by Iskender Yediler. Also, find the huge bronze statue of St. Helen, who is traditionally credited for building the first memorial shrine on this site in the 4th century. The baptismal font dates back to the 12th century. The north transept houses a mural of 1400 depicting the Three Magi, an equestrian sculpture of St. Martin of Tours, and the effigy tomb of Ruprecht, Archbishop of Cologne (1463-78). At the front (east) of the nave are two large Romanesque sculptures depicting an angel and a devil.

Popular Experiences near Minster of St. Martin's

Popular Hotels near Minster of St. Martin's

Select Currency