Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
of all minsters, a red-sandstone giant that looms above the half-timbered facades framing
the square. Its riot of punctured spires and gargoyles flush scarlet in the dusk light.
The main portal is adorned with sculptures depicting scenes from the Old and New
Testaments. Nearby are medieval wall markings used to ensure that merchandise (eg
loaves of bread) were of the requisite size.
Square at the base, the sturdy tower becomes an octagon higher up and is crowned by a
filigreed 116m-high spire. Ascend the tower for an excellent view of the church's intricate
construction; on clear days you can spy the Vosges Mountains in France.
Inside the Münster, the kaleidoscopic stained-glass windows dazzle. Many were fin-
anced by various guilds - in the bottom panels look for a pretzel, scissors and other sym-
bols of medieval trades. The high altar features a masterful triptych of the coronation of
the Virgin Mary by Hans Baldung.
MUSEUM
Augustinermuseum
(Augustinerplatz 1; adult/concession €6/4; 10am-5pm Tue-Sun)
Following a recent
makeover, this beautiful Augustinian monastery, with origins dating back to 1278, once
again showcases a prized collection of medieval, baroque and 19th-century art. Baldung,
Matthias Grünewald and Cranach masterpieces grace the gallery and the medieval stained
glass ranks among Germany's finest.
There is a cafe overlooking the cloister where you can sip a drink and soak up the mon-
astic vibe.
Historisches Kaufhaus
(Münsterplatz)
Facing the Münster's south side and embellished with polychrome tiled
turrets is the arcaded brick-red Historisches Kaufhaus, an early 16th-century merchants'
hall. The coats of arms on the oriels and the four figures above the balcony symbolise
Freiburg's allegiance to the House of Habsburg.
LANDMARK
City Gates
Freiburg has two intact medieval gates, one of which is the
Martinstor
Offline map
Google map
(Martin's Gate;
Click here
;
Kaiser-Joseph-Strasse)
rising above Kaiser-
Joseph-Strasse. A block east of the Museum of Modern Art is the 13th-century
HISTORIC BUILDING
