Stadtkirche St. Dionys: Esslingen's Twin-Towered Treasure

Discover Esslingen's heart at the Stadtkirche St. Dionys, a twin-towered Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained glass and a fascinating excavation museum beneath its foundations.

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Stadtkirche St. Dionys

The Stadtkirche St. Dionys, a landmark Evangelical church, dominates Esslingen's Marktplatz with its striking twin towers connected by a bridge. Dating back to the 14th century, this architectural marvel stands on the site of earlier churches, with settlement and religious buildings documented since 777. Explore its Gothic grandeur, admire the magnificent stained-glass windows from around 1300, and discover the Ausgrabungsmuseum beneath the church, revealing the foundations of its predecessors. A visit offers a glimpse into Esslingen's rich history and the enduring spirit of faith that has shaped the city for centuries. The church is not only a tourist attraction but also a vibrant place of worship.

A brief summary to Stadtkirche St. Dionys

Marktpl. 18, Esslingen, 73728, DE
+4971139697342
Visit website

Monday 9 am-6 pm
Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
Thursday 9 am-6 pm
Friday 12 pm-6 pm
Saturday 9 am-6 pm
Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

Visit the Ausgrabungsmuseum beneath the church to explore the remains of earlier religious structures dating back to the 8th century.
Climb the towers for panoramic views of Esslingen's Altstadt and the Neckar Valley.
Attend a service or concert to experience the church's beautiful acoustics and spiritual atmosphere.
Explore the Marktplatz surrounding the church, a vibrant hub with historic buildings and weekly markets.
Download the church's audio guide in multiple languages for a self-guided tour.

Getting There

Walking

The Stadtkirche St. Dionys is located on Marktplatz in the heart of Esslingen's Altstadt (old town). From Esslingen train station, walk north along Bahnhofstraße, then turn right onto Untere Beutau. Continue onto Rathausplatz, and the church will be directly ahead on the south side of the square. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes and well-signposted. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

If arriving by S-Bahn (urban train) at Esslingen station, several bus lines (e.g., 114, 122, X20) stop near Marktplatz. Take any bus heading towards the city center and disembark at the 'Marktplatz' stop. From there, the church is a short walk. A single VVS (Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund Stuttgart) zone ticket is required, costing approximately €2.60.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Esslingen train station to Stadtkirche St. Dionys on Marktplatz will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €8-€12. Note that availability may vary, especially during peak hours or events.
Driving

If driving, navigate to Esslingen Marktplatz. Parking near the Marktplatz is limited. Consider using parking garages such as the Klinikum Esslingen or Neckar Forum Esslingen. Hourly parking rates typically range from €2-€3. Be aware that parking can be challenging during market days or events.

Discover more about Stadtkirche St. Dionys

The Stadtkirche St. Dionys, or City Church of St. Dionysius, is a prominent landmark in Esslingen am Neckar, its twin towers a defining feature of the city's skyline. Located on the south side of the bustling Marktplatz (market square), the church is not only a significant religious site but also a testament to Esslingen's rich history and architectural evolution. The church's origins trace back to the 8th century when a nobleman named Hafti gifted his church to Abbot Fulrad of Saint-Denis near Paris. Fulrad established a small monastery and pilgrimage site here, bringing relics of St. Vitalis from Rome. This early church was replaced in the 9th century by a larger basilica with a crypt to house the relics. The patronage later shifted to St. Dionysius, the patron saint of the Abbey of Saint-Denis. The present-day Stadtkirche St. Dionys largely dates from the 14th century, showcasing a transition from Romanesque to Gothic architectural styles. The two distinctive towers, connected by a covered bridge, are a later addition from around 1600, necessitated by structural concerns. This bridge has become an iconic symbol of Esslingen. Inside, the church boasts a wealth of historical and artistic treasures. The stained-glass windows in the choir, dating back to around 1300, are considered among the most important and beautiful medieval stained glass in Germany. These vibrant windows depict biblical scenes and figures, illuminating the space with their radiant colors. The high altar, crafted in 1604 by Peter Riedlinger, and the sacrament house, created in 1486 by Lorenz Lächler, are other notable features. Fragments of frescoes depicting the Legend of St. Leonard, dating from 1410, can also be found within the church. The Rococo organ, built in 1754 by Sigismund Haußdörfer and later expanded by the Walcker firm, is one of the largest organs in the region, containing approximately 6,550 pipes. Beneath the Stadtkirche lies the Ausgrabungsmuseum (excavation museum), an archaeological site that reveals the foundations of the earlier churches that stood on this location. Excavations in the 1960s uncovered the remains of the 8th and 9th-century structures, providing valuable insights into Esslingen's early history and religious development. Visitors can explore the crypt of the second church and view artifacts discovered during the excavations, including a Merovingian tombstone. The Marktplatz surrounding the Stadtkirche is a vibrant hub of activity, hosting weekly markets, festivals, and the renowned Esslingen Medieval Market & Christmas Market. The square is lined with historic buildings, including the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) with its astronomical clock, creating a picturesque setting for visitors to explore. The Stadtkirche St. Dionys continues to serve as a place of worship and a center for the Evangelical community in Esslingen. Services are held regularly, and the church is open to visitors daily. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and spiritual atmosphere make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Esslingen am Neckar. Visiting the Stadtkirche St. Dionys is more than just a sightseeing trip; it's an immersive experience that connects you to the heart and soul of Esslingen. Whether you're admiring the stained-glass artistry, delving into the archaeological depths of the Ausgrabungsmuseum, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of the Marktplatz, the Stadtkirche offers a unique and unforgettable glimpse into the past and present of this captivating city. The church's imposing presence and historical importance make it a focal point for understanding Esslingen's evolution from a small settlement to a thriving medieval town and a modern center. Its enduring legacy as a place of faith, art, and community ensures its continued relevance for generations to come. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the towers for panoramic views of Esslingen and the surrounding Neckar Valley. The climb provides a unique perspective on the city's layout and the church's architectural details. Keep an eye out for special events and concerts held within the church, offering a chance to experience its acoustics and ambiance in a truly memorable way. The Stadtkirche St. Dionys is a living testament to Esslingen's past and a vibrant symbol of its present. Its blend of architectural styles, artistic treasures, and historical significance makes it an essential destination for any traveler seeking to discover the essence of this charming German city.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Stadtkirche St. Dionys with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Stadtkirche St. Dionys: Esslingen's Twin-Towered Treasure

A brief summary to Stadtkirche St. Dionys

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Stadtkirche St. Dionys

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Stadtkirche St. Dionys

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old Town Hall

Schelztorturm

Küferstraße 1

Sepulchral Chapel on Württemberg hill

ForstBW - House of the Forest

Tea House in Weissenburg Park

Bruddlerstaffel

König-Karls-Brücke

Jakobsbrunnen

Reiterstandbild von König Wilhelm I. von Württemberg

Junobrunnen

Lautenschlägerbrunnen

Haus der Geschichte Baden-Württemberg

Polizeibrunnen

Stuttgarter Pferd

Unmissable attractions to see

Maille Park

Weinbaumuseum Stuttgart

Mercedes-Benz Museum

SchweineMuseum Stuttgart

Wasserspiel Stadtarchiv Bad Cannstatt

Stuttgart TV Tower

Tor-Brunnen

Himmelfahrtsbrunnen

Weißenburgpark

Galateabrunnen

Eugenstaffel

Fontänenbrunnen

Marktbrunnen

Unterer Schlossgarten

Wilhelm Palais

Essential places to dine

Speisemeisterei

Restaurant Äquator

Raman Restaurant

Ambiente Africa

Sophie's Beer Garden

Weinstube am Stadtgraben

Der Zauberlehrling

Zur alten Schmiede

Schellenturm

The Little Greek Taverna

Zur Sattlerei

Restaurant Kicho

Der Rote Hirsch

Restaurant zum Ackerbürger - Stuttgart

Kleinschmeckerei

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

C&A

Boutique Niveau

Galaxy Fashion arabische & islamische Mode - Stuttgart

EuroShop

Mode Boutique

Schmachtfetzen

Second Hand Boutique

Weltladen Bad Cannstatt

Cedon Museum Shops GmbH

DIVINA Marina

LULU BABYSHOP

Dorotheen Quartier

Gucci Corner Stuttgart

Breuninger Stuttgart

Bottega Veneta Stuttgart Breuninger

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Palm Beach Stuttgart

Elegance Bar