St. Augustine's Church: A Baroque Jewel in Mainz

Discover Mainz's Baroque masterpiece: St. Augustine's Church, a serene sanctuary of art, history, and faith in the heart of the old town, showcasing stunning frescoes and Rococo splendor.

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St. Augustine's Church

St. Augustine's Church, or Augustinerkirche, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture nestled in the heart of Mainz's old town. Built between 1768 and 1771 on the site of a former Gothic church, this Catholic seminary church boasts a richly decorated interior with magnificent ceiling frescoes by Johann Baptist Enderle, depicting the life of St. Augustine. The exterior features a vibrant Main-Franconian Baroque facade adorned with a sculpture of the Coronation of Mary by Nikolaus Binterim. Inside, visitors can admire the Rococo-style altars, a rare 1420 wood sculpture of Mary with the Child Jesus, and a remarkable 1773 Baroque pipe organ by Johann Heinrich Stumm, one of the few surviving instruments of its kind. Despite its location amidst bustling streets, the church offers a serene atmosphere, inviting contemplation and appreciation of its artistic and historical significance. A visit to St. Augustine's provides a glimpse into Mainz's rich religious and artistic heritage.

A brief summary to St. Augustine's Church

Local tips

Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the vibrant colors of the ceiling frescoes and the intricate details of the Rococo interior.
Take a moment to sit in the pews and soak in the peaceful atmosphere, allowing yourself to contemplate the church's rich history and artistic beauty.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming Augustinerstrasse, exploring its quaint shops, cafes, and wine bars.

Getting There

Walking

St. Augustine's Church is located in the heart of Mainz's Altstadt (Old Town) on Augustinerstrasse, a pedestrian-friendly street. From the Markt (Market Square) near the Mainz Cathedral, walk southeast along Liebfrauenstrasse, then turn left onto Augustinerstrasse. The church will be on your right, easily identifiable by its Baroque facade. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and involves no special transport or tolls.
Public Transport

If arriving by tram or bus, the closest stops are 'Am Brand' or 'Schillerplatz'. From either stop, walk along Augustinerstrasse towards the city center. The church will be on your left. A single public transport fare within Mainz is approximately €2.80. No additional costs are involved.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Mainz Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to St. Augustine's Church will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €8-€12. The drop-off point is typically near Schillerplatz or Am Brand, a short walk from the church.
Driving

Parking in the immediate vicinity of St. Augustine's Church is limited. The closest parking garages are 'Tiefgarage Am Brand' and 'Parkhaus Römerpassage'. Hourly parking rates range from €2.50 to €3.50, with daily maximums around €20-€25. Be aware that the Altstadt can be congested, especially during peak tourist season and market days. Consider using park-and-ride options outside the city center and taking public transport in.

Discover more about St. Augustine's Church

St. Augustine's Church, known locally as Augustinerkirche, stands as a magnificent testament to Baroque and Rococo artistry in the heart of Mainz, Germany. This Catholic church, currently serving as the seminary church of the Catholic theological seminary of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Mainz, is steeped in history and architectural splendor. The church's story began long before its current Baroque form. It was constructed between 1768 and 1771, replacing a Gothic church that had stood on the same site since 1260. The Augustinian hermits, who had maintained a monastery on Augustinerstrasse since the 13th century, commissioned the new building. While the master mason's name remains unknown, their vision resulted in a structure that embodies the opulent aesthetics of the late 18th century. Despite its relatively recent construction, the exterior of St. Augustine's Church is distinctly Baroque. The facade, crafted in the Main-Franconian Baroque style, makes a striking impression. Due to its location surrounded by convent and seminary buildings, the church's towerless facade is the most visible feature, rising above the other structures in the old town. Above the main portal, a group of sculptures by Nikolaus Binterim depicts the Coronation of Mary, Queen of Heaven, flanked by St. Augustine of Hippo, the patron saint of the Augustinian order, and his mother, St. Monica. These figures add a layer of theological and historical depth to the church's exterior. The interior of St. Augustine's Church is a breathtaking display of Rococo design. The fusion of the nave and choir creates a sense of spaciousness and unity, a hallmark of Rococo architecture. The altars are richly ornamented, reflecting the style of the period. However, the late construction date of the church is evident in subtle hints of Classicism, blending the old and new. The ceiling frescoes, painted in 1772 by Johann Baptist Enderle, are among the church's most prized features. These vibrant paintings depict scenes from the life of St. Augustine, offering insights into the history of the Mendicant Order that has been present on Augustinerstrasse since the 13th century. Enderle's frescoes are the only originally preserved ceiling murals in any of Mainz's Baroque or Rococo churches, making them a particularly significant artistic treasure. Among the many artistic treasures within St. Augustine's, a wood sculpture of Mary with the Child Jesus, dating back to 1420, holds a special place. This sculpture, created in the "soft style" of Gothic art, is known for its unusual cheerfulness, with Mary and Jesus depicted smiling and laughing. The sculpture was moved to St. Augustine's in 1807 from the demolished Gothic Liebfrauenkirche (St. Maria ad Gradus), which once stood beneath Mainz Cathedral. The high altar features a unique iconographic element: a depiction of God the Father tearing up Mankind's Book of Sins at the moment of Christ's death. This rare image adds a layer of theological complexity to the church's already rich artistic program. Another notable feature of St. Augustine's Church is its pipe organ, built in 1773 by Johann Heinrich Stumm, a member of the renowned Stumm family of organ builders. This Baroque organ is one of the few surviving instruments crafted by the Stumm family, and it remains largely in its original form. The organ boasts 31 stops on two manuals and a pedal, with mechanical key and stop tracker actions. St. Augustine's Church holds a unique place in Mainz's history, as it was one of the few churches in the city that escaped significant damage during World War II. This preservation allows visitors to experience the church's original splendor without the need for extensive reconstruction. Today, St. Augustine's Church continues to serve as a vital part of the Mainz community. As the seminary church of the Catholic theological seminary, it hosts regular services and events. Visitors are welcome to explore the church's stunning interior, admire its artistic treasures, and experience its serene atmosphere. The church's location in the heart of Mainz's old town makes it an easy addition to any sightseeing itinerary. Its proximity to other historical sites, charming cafes, and shops ensures a delightful and enriching experience for all who visit. Visiting St. Augustine's Church offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse oneself in the artistic and religious heritage of Mainz. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, St. Augustine's Church is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Liebfrauenpl.

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Iron Tower

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Stresemann-Ufer

0.5 km

Experience Mainz's vibrant riverside promenade: where history meets art and leisure along the scenic Stresemann-Ufer, offering stunning Rhine views and cultural attractions.

Schillerpl.

0.5 km

Experience the heart of Mainz at Schillerplatz: a vibrant square steeped in history, framed by Baroque palaces, and home to the iconic Carnival Fountain, offering a true taste of German culture.

Sandsteinreliefs der Kurfürsten und des deutschen Königs

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Castle Gate

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Schloss Park

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Das Hessendenkmal

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Holocaust Memorial (Shadow of former Synagogue)

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A solemn tribute to Wiesbaden's Jewish citizens murdered during the Holocaust, marking the site of the former synagogue and promoting remembrance and reflection.

Holocaust Memorial (Shadow of former Synagogue)

Goethestein

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Nerobergbahn Wiesbaden

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Ingelheim Imperial Palace

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Hofheimer Bergkapelle

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Deutsch-Griechischer Erinnerungs- und Friedenspfad "Brücken Schlagen"

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Meisterturm

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Römerpassage

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Rhine Valley Store

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Gutenberg-Center

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Weinköpfe Grape Escapes

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Marken Outlet Kriftel

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Woellhaf-2

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Thousand Dresses (NUR MIT TERMIN)

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Lufthansa WorldShop

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Rheinhattan Bar

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Spiritus

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Bar One - Wiesbaden

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KS4 Café & Cocktailbar-Lounge

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Orientierbar

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BALTHASAR Café * Bar * Lounge

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BAHNSINN ...die Bar mit Anschluss

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Panoramabar

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Pub 51

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Pub Niedernhausen - The Kings Crown

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ContainerCube

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Legends Sportsbar

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Adlerhof

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Cristal bar

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LAFAYE Restaurant & Bar

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St. Augustine's Church: A Baroque Jewel in Mainz

A brief summary to St. Augustine's Church

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of St. Augustine's Church

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about St. Augustine's Church

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Liebfrauenpl.

Iron Tower

Stresemann-Ufer

Schillerpl.

Sandsteinreliefs der Kurfürsten und des deutschen Königs

Castle Gate

Schloss Park

Das Hessendenkmal

Holocaust Memorial (Shadow of former Synagogue)

Goethestein

Nerobergbahn Wiesbaden

Ingelheim Imperial Palace

Hofheimer Bergkapelle

Deutsch-Griechischer Erinnerungs- und Friedenspfad "Brücken Schlagen"

Meisterturm

Unmissable attractions to see

Haus zum Aschaffenberg

Kirschgarten

Ladengalerie Kirschgarten10

Dom- und Diözesanmuseum

Mainz Cathedral

Liebfrauenplatz

Nagelsäule

Holzturm

Marktbrunnen

Parish of St. Ignatius

Gutenberg Museum

Wochenmarkt Mainz Domplatz

Rekonstruierter Marktplatz am Dom

Markt

Gutenbergplatz

Essential places to dine

Augustinerkeller

Bellpepper Restaurant & Terrasse

Favorite Restaurant

Gourmet-Restaurant Kronenschlösschen

Hundertguldenmühle

Zur schönen Aussicht

Merlin

Zum fröhlichen Landmann

Elba Restaurant

Zur Dorfschänke

Villa Borgnis Kurhaus im Park

Lucullus

Restaurant Ratsstuben

Stadtschänke

fishfarm sushi

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Römerpassage

Rhine Valley Store

Gutenberg-Center

Weinköpfe Grape Escapes

Marken Outlet Kriftel

exclusive-dog-boutique

Duty Free And Travel Value

Germany On My Mind

Woellhaf-2

Thousand Dresses (NUR MIT TERMIN)

Lufthansa WorldShop

GALERIA Sulzbach Main-Taunus-Zentrum

Main-Taunus-Zentrum

G-Star

Das Parfum & Beauty GmbH

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Rheinhattan Bar

Spiritus