ULM, Germany (AP) — The Ulmer Münster, located in southern Germany, currently holds the title of the tallest church in the world. This status, however, may soon change.
The Lutheran church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, was inaugurated on May 31, 1890. Its reign could come to an end in 2025 when the “Tower of Jesus Christ” at La Sagrada Familia Basilica in Spain is projected to be completed. The basilica, which is situated in Barcelona, aims to reach a height of 172.5 meters (approximately 566 feet), surpassing the Ulmer Münster by about 11 meters (36 feet).
Despite the anticipation, the construction of La Sagrada Familia has been ongoing for 142 years and may not conclude until 2026, marking a century since the death of its original architect, Antoni Gaudí. Interestingly, a German company is responsible for crafting the 17-meter (55.77-foot) cross that will enhance the basilica’s final height.
The lead pastor of Ulmer Münster, Dean Torsten Krannich, remains unfazed by the potential loss of height prestige. “I don’t find it all that fascinating that it is the highest church tower in the world,” he expressed to The Associated Press. “This is simply a wonderful church that invites you to pray and be thankful, lifting my heart up to God.”
Ulm also has the distinction of being the birthplace of Albert Einstein, who was born there in 1879 and spent his early months in the city. He returned to Ulm in 1923 and even ascended the church’s tower. The Ulmer Münster features a stained glass window dedicated to Einstein and other notable scientists, further connecting the church to its scientific legacy.
Dirk Homburg, the head of communications for Ulm’s tourism board, notes that the city boasts a rich tapestry of art and culture. “Even if we no longer have the highest church in the world, we can still inspire our guests,” he said.
The history of Ulmer Münster dates back to 1377, when inhabitants made the decision to demolish their older parish church. The previous church, located outside the city gates, posed dangers during the frequent wars of the Middle Ages. Citizens banded together to fund a new church in the city center, envisioning it with the world’s tallest spire.
Construction was halted in 1543 due to the political and economic upheaval following the Protestant Reformation, with work resuming in 1844. By May 31, 1890, the church was completed, standing proud at a height of 161.5 meters (530 feet). The builders intentionally designed it to eclipse the Cologne Cathedral in northwest Germany, which reached 157.2 meters (516 feet) in 1880.
The Ulmer Münster endured a bombing raid during World War II in 1944 but remarkably remained standing. However, the age of the church, along with the impact of weather and approximately 1 million visitors each year, necessitates ongoing restoration efforts alongside regular religious services.
Visitors to Ulmer Münster can currently climb 560 stairs to a viewing platform at 102 meters (335 feet). Unfortunately, the higher platform at 143 meters (469 feet) is temporarily closed for repairs.
Despite the potential changes, Krannich emphasizes that the quality of the church remains unaffected by the height differences. “Whether the tower is now 5 meters (16.4 feet) higher or lower, it doesn’t matter to the quality of this church,” he asserted.
Two-time visitor Ursula Heckler mentioned that she initially came to Ulm in 2019, drawn by the allure of visiting the world’s tallest church. However, she stated she has no plans to visit La Sagrada Familia once its construction is finished.
Christos Kalokerinos, a local resident, shared a similar sentiment regarding the church’s impending change in status. “There are so many other beautiful aspects of the Münster that it’s not really relevant,” he said. “While it was nice to brag about having the tallest church tower, not everyone is familiar with Ulm in that way.”
Interestingly, there are few markers in the city that highlight this record. The church’s gift shop humorously features a faux fireplace labeled, “the world’s tallest church,” while a nearby store offers a postcard that compares the church’s height with that of the Great Pyramid of Giza, Big Ben, and the Statue of Liberty—all shorter than the Ulmer Münster.
The residents of the region, known as Swabians, are often characterized by their understated approach. “They don’t want to boast,” Krannich noted. “Not everyone needs to know. It’s enough if we know it ourselves.”
Looking ahead to next year, Homburg mentioned plans to incorporate Albert Einstein more prominently into their marketing efforts.
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AP journalist Kirsten Grieshaber contributed to this report.
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Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
