For over a century, the Ulmer Münster- the towering Gothic church dominating the southern German skyscape – has been acclaimed as the world’s tallest church at 161.5 meters. Completed in 1890, it has since then served as a prominent landmark. However, this may soon be overtaken by the La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, whose “Tower of Jesus Christ” will reach 172.5 meters when completed.
Antoni Gaudí designed the iconic basilica, and it has been under construction for 142 years, while completion is expected in the 2026-a century since the death of the architect.
Yet the local leaders of Ulmer Münster do not seem to be getting ruffled feathers from an impending change of titles. According to the dean, Torsten Krannich, while the height of the church was quite impressive, it is not what defines them. “It lifts our hearts up to God,” Krannich said, underscoring the spiritual meaning and architectural importance of the church beyond its height.
Ironically, a German company is making a 17-meter cross that will top La Sagrada Familia’s highest spire. But Ulmer Münster’s status as a historic and cultural wonder is inexorably linked to the city’s broader history, which includes serving as the birthplace of Albert Einstein. The physicist, who was born in Ulm in 1879, even returned in 1923 to climb the church’s famous tower.
The Ulmer Münster has its origins in 1377 when, out of fear of an attack by the Count of Württemberg, citizens demolished their original parish church to build one more safely within the city’s walls. Centuries of pauses and resumed construction through political turbulence later, the church was finished in 1890 to become the badge of civic pride. Soon, the citizens of Ulm may have to give up their title as having the church, but they are still proud of the unique architectural and cultural treasure that attracts visitors from all parts of the globe.
