The Wies Church, or Wieskirche, located in Steingaden, Bavaria, Germany, welcomes around a million visitors annually who are captivated by this true work of art. Due to its proximity to the Neuschwanstein Castle, it is an unmissable attraction that should be included in an itinerary for the Romantic Road.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Built in 1754 by Dominikus Zimmermann, the pilgrimage church in the Wies district has a simple exterior but surprises with its magnificent interior, featuring striking paintings that cover the ceiling and altars. This Rococo masterpiece was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and remains one of the main tourist highlights of Bavaria.
Wieskirche and the Legend of the Miracle of the Tear
According to legend, on June 14, 1738, Maria Lory, a peasant from the village of Wies, was astonished to see bloody tears in the eyes of the statue of the Flagellated Christ. The statue, created in 1730 by Father Magnun Straub and his brother Lukas Schweiger, was originally housed in a simple wooden chapel in the Alpine valley.
News of this miracle spread rapidly, attracting thousands of pilgrims from Germany, Austria, and even Italy. The surge of pilgrims led to the necessity of building a larger sanctuary to accommodate them.
In 1745, under the direction of Abbot Marinus II Mayer, German architect Dominikus Zimmermann designed the Wies Church. The church was inaugurated in 1754 and is now recognized as one of the greatest examples of Baroque architecture.
A Rococo Masterpiece
The Wies Pilgrimage Church, as it is also known, is an architectural masterpiece of the Rococo style. While the exterior may seem modest, the interior is breathtaking.
The sanctuary is adorned with colorful frescoes depicting religious scenes, and the ceiling above the main altar is a highlight of the visit. The ascending angels form the letter “S”, symbolizing the instruments of Christ’s Passion. This illusionistic work of art was designed by Johann Baptist Zimmermann, brother of Dominikus Zimmermann and one of the most renowned figures of German Baroque and Rococo.
The nave of the church features four emblematic sculptures by Tyrolean sculptor Anton Sturm, representing Augustine of Hippo, Ambrose of Milan, Gregory the Great, and Jerome of Stridon, the four principal theologians of the Western Church.
Visiting Hours and Major Festivities
The church is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM in summer and until 5 PM in winter. Visitors should check the official website in advance, as opening hours may change due to concerts and religious services. Visitors are not allowed inside during mass.
Main Festivities at Wies Church:
- Annual Pilgrimage – May 1st
- Feast of the Tears of Christ – June 14th (or the second Sunday of June, commemorating the 1738 miracle)
- Guardian Angel Festival – First Sunday of September
- Brotherhood Festival of the Flagellated Savior of Wies – Second Sunday of October
Best Time to Visit Wies Church and Nearby Attractions
Unlike in Brazil, Germany has distinct seasons, so the best time to visit depends on personal preference. The church is open year-round, and the scenery is stunning in all seasons.
The Wies Church is near the Alpine town of Füssen, the final stop on the Romantic Road, famous for its historical and cultural attractions like the Hohes Schloss Castle and Saint Mang Monastery. Located near the Austrian border, it offers many travel opportunities.
Additionally, visitors can experience a real-life fairytale by visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in Schwangau, just a short drive away. According to legend, this medieval-inspired castle served as the model for Cinderella’s Castle at Disney. The castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II in 1869 as a place of retreat, but the king passed away in 1886 before it was fully decorated.
Explore Wies Church with Majestic Germany
We offer private guided tours in English to explore Wies Church, this imposing Baroque treasure in the heart of the Romantic Road, as well as other nearby attractions like Neuschwanstein Castle.
Our agency provides personalized travel services to ensure a stress-free and enriching experience, including:
- Personalized guided tours in English with expert guides to help you discover the castle and the region with ease.
- Exclusive tailor-made itineraries designed for you and your travel companions, ensuring a leisurely exploration of the region.
- Accommodation and transportation recommendations to help you find the best hotels and get around easily by bus, train, rental car, or private transfer.
- Customized tourist itinerary for Wies Church and surrounding attractions.
Get in touch with us and let our team take care of all the details to make your trip to Germany an unforgettable experience.