Asamkirche: A Tiny Church in Munich that Packs in a Memorable Ambiance
It doesn’t take long in Europe for me to get all “churched” out. Cathedrals…chapels…they all start to look the same.
Yet, for some reason, I still always want to visit them.
Most don’t take that long to go through and are free to enter. I love architecture so I don’t want to accidentally miss some wonderful gem in the midst of a city. So during my day in Munich, I visited three different churches, but the only one that still prominently stands out in my mind is Asamkirche.
Asamkirche is located in the city center of Munich, less than a ten minute walk from the main square of Marienplatz.
Unlike most churches, Asamkirche isn’t a standalone building. It’s located in the middle of a long row of connected buildings in Munich and while eye-catching from the outside, it doesn’t look anything like a church or architectural wonder until you step inside. And then…it’s an incredible vision of gold, frescoes, and opulence.
You also might enjoy reading: A Guide to the Frescoed Bavarian Towns of Oberammergau and Mittenwald
Asamkirche was built in the 18th century and gets its name from architect Egid Quirin Asam, who lived in the house next door to the soon-to-be-constructed Asamkirche and built the church along with his brother, Cosmas, as their personal place of worship with the intention of being buried in the tomb underneath the chapel.
Unfortunately for Asam, the higher powers of the church claimed Asamkirche and demanded it be opened to the public, which – lucky for all of us – it still is today.
Asamkirche’s Architecture
For architecture buffs, Asamkirche is one of the best examples of Baroque architecture you can see. I loved the gleaming sunburst above the altar.
Asamkirche is named after Saint Johann Nepomuk and there is a statue of him displayed prominently in the church.
Asamkirche also has its sobering moments, like when I was surprised by this sorrowful rendering of Jesus Christ located to the right of the pews.
Getting to Asamkirche
To get to Asamkirche in Munich, take the metro to the Sendlingertor stop. Entrance for the church is free.
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I would double check the hours for when you’re there, but I would assume it’s open most afternoons around that time. I wouldn’t say you need more than 30 minutes there (if that) unless you’re really into the artwork and architecture.
Hi! May i know whats the opening hours for the church? Will it be too late to visit this place after lunch (Say 3-4pm?) will we spend a long time in the church?
Hope to hear from you! Thanks!
Yes, so happy to see you are interested in baroque church architecture.
Assamkirche is a lovely jewel among many in Munich.
We prayed in all of them December, 2015.