The Stadtkirche St. Peter und Paul (Church of St. Peter and Paul) or Herderkirche as it’s also known, is one of the most important religious landmarks in the city and is part of the UNESCO-listed Classical Weimar site. Admire the whitewashed late Gothic exterior, survey the artworks of the interior and learn about its role in Weimar’s history.
Though a church has stood on this site since as early as the 1240s, the current late Gothic, three-nave structure dates back to the late 1490s. Together with 11 other Weimar sites, including the Duchess Anna Amalia Library and the Residence Castle, it forms the Classical Weimar UNESCO World Heritage site, which reflects Weimar’s role as an influential cultural hub in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Stand back and view the picturesque church from the cobbled street out front. The church features a white-painted façade and a dark roof. At its west end is a tower, with an octagonal spire at the top.
Although it has a photogenic exterior, the real gems of this church are to be found inside. Look for the acclaimed altar triptych, which was begun by Lucas Cranach the Elder in 1552 and finished by his son, Lucas Cranach the Younger, before being erected above the main altar in 1557. Examine the three panels, the centre of which depicts the Crucifixion of Christ.
Learn about the famous figures who have ties to the church. Martin Luther, a leading figure in the Protestant Reformation, often preached here, while composer J.S. Bach played here several times. The church also has connections with philosopher Johann Gottfried Herder, who served as vicar, chaplain and general superintendent here. Pay tribute to the great philosopher at his tomb inside the church. A statue of Herder also stands in front of the church.
Find the Stadtkirche St. Peter und Paul in old town Weimar. The church is open daily, with limited opening hours from November through to March.
