Alte Kapelle Basilica of the Nativity
Bavaria's oldest church, a Rococo masterpiece with a stunning, light-filled interior of white and gold.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Alte Kapelle Basilica of the Nativity
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bavaria's oldest church, a Rococo masterpiece with a stunning, light-filled interior of white and gold.
"Gorgeous, light, white, gold, airy. Fabulous example of German rococo. Well worth the time to visit."
Check Opening Hours First
It's a functioning church, so it can close for services. Call ahead or check local listings!
Enter from the Square
The main entrance is on the square, not directly from the street. Look for the main facade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rococo Masterpiece Interior
Main Nave
An airy, light-filled space with exquisite white and gold Rococo art, gilded details, and stunning ceiling frescoes.
Side Chapel Artistry
Side Chapel
This unfenced chapel boasts breathtaking Rococo art adorning its ceiling, offering an intimate viewing experience.
Historic Significance
Exterior and Nave
Explore Bavaria's oldest church, a site of Roman and Ottonian origins, redesigned into a Baroque and Rococo gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Photography Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours First
It's a functioning church, so it can close for services. Call ahead or check local listings!
Enter from the Square
The main entrance is on the square, not directly from the street. Look for the main facade.
Don't Miss the Side Chapel
This area has stunning, unfenced ceiling art. A real highlight for many visitors.
Photography is Allowed
Capture the beauty, but be respectful during services.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours First
It's a functioning church, so it can close for services. Call ahead or check local listings!
Enter from the Square
The main entrance is on the square, not directly from the street. Look for the main facade.
Don't Miss the Side Chapel
This area has stunning, unfenced ceiling art. A real highlight for many visitors.
Photography is Allowed
Capture the beauty, but be respectful during services.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Alte Kapelle for its breathtaking Rococo interior, describing it as a light, airy, and exquisitely decorated space. The stunning ceiling frescoes and the unfenced side chapel are particular highlights. While some note it can be closed for services, the beauty is still appreciated even from the outside.
"Gorgeous, light, white, gold, airy. Fabulous example of German rococo. Well worth the time to visit. The entrance is from the square, not the street."
Kate Jones
"This is the oldest church in Bavaria, built in the early medieval era and redesigned in the Baroque age. The interior features Rococo art at its finest. There is an internal fence for security but it doesn't obscure the views. The side chapel has no fence and had stunning rococo art adorning its ceiling."
L.R. Henry
"Sad that it's closed with fence but you can still make photos and enjoy the gorgeous views"
Evgeniia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alte Kapelle is conveniently located on Alter Kornmarkt in Regensburg's historic city center, east of St. Peter's Cathedral. You can easily walk there from other major attractions. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops nearby.
Parking in the historic city center can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages like Parkhaus Bismarckplatz or Parkhaus am Dom, which are a short walk away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Alte Kapelle is generally free, as it is a functioning church. However, donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep.
Opening hours can vary as it's a place of worship. It's best to check local listings or call ahead, as it may be closed for private services or events.
While you can sometimes visit during mass, it's advisable to be quiet and respectful. For a more in-depth exploration without disruption, aim for times outside of services.
The main nave is generally accessible. However, some older churches may have steps or uneven flooring. It's recommended to inquire directly about specific accessibility needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the Alte Kapelle, but always be mindful of ongoing services or private events. Avoid using flash photography during services.
Many visitors find the main nave with its ornate Rococo decor and the side chapel with its stunning ceiling frescoes to be the most photogenic areas.
Yes, the exterior of the Alte Kapelle can be photographed from the Alter Kornmarkt square. Its subtle exterior contrasts with its opulent interior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Consider visiting during off-peak hours to minimize noise and distractions. Explain to children that it's a special place where people pray, encouraging respectful behavior. The proximity to St. Peter's Cathedral also offers other historical sights that might appeal to a broader range of ages.
🏛️ History Buffs
Focus on: The layers of history visible in the architecture, from the Romanesque core to the Gothic choir and the 18th-century Rococo embellishments. Researching the founding of the collegiate monastery by Henry II and Kunigunde will add depth to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
This transformation brought about the church's renowned Baroque and Rococo redesign, making it a masterpiece of the Wessobrunn School. The interior is a testament to this era, featuring an airy, light-filled nave adorned with intricate white and gold ornamentation, elaborate altars, and captivating ceiling frescoes. The contrast between its unassuming exterior and its dazzling interior is a recurring theme in visitor experiences.
Despite its age and historical layers, the Alte Kapelle remains an active Catholic church. This means visitors might encounter services or private events, which can affect access. Understanding its layered history, from Roman foundations to Ottonian monastery and Rococo splendor, enriches the experience of visiting this significant Bavarian landmark.
Experiencing the Rococo Splendor
A highlight for many is the side chapel, which is often unfenced, allowing for a more intimate appreciation of its art. The ceiling here is described as having 'stunning rococo art adorning its ceiling,' offering a close-up view of the intricate artistry. Even with an internal fence in the main nave for security, it's noted that this doesn't significantly obscure the views, allowing visitors to still 'enjoy the gorgeous views.'
When visiting, taking a moment to simply sit and absorb the surroundings is highly recommended. The sheer detail and artistry demand a slow appreciation. Photography is generally allowed, providing ample opportunity to capture the splendor, though respect for ongoing services is paramount.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit