Published: 04.05.2026
Thursday, October 30, 2025: On this day, the Ulm Minster lost its status as the tallest church tower in the world!
For over 135 years, the 161.53 meters of the Ulm Minster tower were the standard. However, since the installation of the lower element of the tower cross on the central 'Tower of Jesus Christ' of the Sagrada Família, the Spaniards have pulled ahead with their 162.91 meters.
Visiting Ulm and the Ulm Minster is still worthwhile. And the ascent to nearly the top is absolutely a must. The narrow stair towers lead up over 560 steps to the second level at a height of 102 meters. Unfortunately, the viewing platform at 143 meters is currently off-limits due to renovation works.
However, the 560 steps are certainly enough to get out of breath. Railings are rather sparsely available, but at least there’s no traffic coming down, as the ascent and descent are separated.
You really feel the height, especially when the wind hits you. Since there are no similarly tall buildings around, it flows freely through the openings. Quite refreshing, let’s put it that way.
However, you can’t look freely into the distance, as everything is tightly gridded to prevent falls of any kind.
The 'workout' costs 9 Euros for adults, while children from 7 years pay 6 Euros. The machine is right at the entrance to the ascent.
The minster itself can be visited for free. Although it was partially scaffolded during our visit, we still managed to find the Ulm Sparrow. But Albert Einstein, who is said to be depicted somewhere on one of the stained-glass windows, remained well hidden. We did not spot him, in any case.
A lot of art history probably got missed. We'll save that for our next visit when everything is freely accessible again.
