Egidienkirche church in Nuremberg with historic architecture

St. Egidien

St. Egidien Nuremberg: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

St. Egidien Church, nestled in the heart of Nuremberg’s Old Town, stands as a testament to the city’s layered religious, architectural, and cultural history. As Nuremberg’s only surviving Baroque church, it fuses its early 12th-century medieval roots with 18th-century artistic grandeur. From its beginnings as part of the Benedictine Schottenkloster to its pivotal role in the Reformation and education reform, St. Egidien remains a living landmark for worshippers, history enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike (Wikipedia; tourismus.nuernberg.de).

The church’s Baroque reconstruction between 1711 and 1718, led by Johann and Gottlieb Trost, introduced an oval floor plan, ornate stucco by Donato Polli, and frescoes by Daniel Preisler and Johann Martin Schuster. Despite severe damage during World War II and a simplified postwar restoration, St. Egidien continues to serve as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and community events that bridge tradition and modernity (SpottingHistory; Egidienkirche).

This detailed guide offers everything you need to know about visiting St. Egidien: historical context, visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, guided tours, nearby attractions, practical travel advice, and cultural programming.

Egidienkirche church exterior with blue sky

Introduction
Historical Overview
Visiting Information
Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Historical Overview

Early Origins and Medieval Foundations

St. Egidien’s history dates back to the early 12th century, originating with the Benedictine Schottenkloster, founded from Regensburg. The first church was a Romanesque basilica, elements of which survive in the Euchariuskapelle, notably its early vaulting (Wikipedia). The monastic community was central to Nuremberg’s spiritual and educational life, and the dedication to St. Giles reflects the saint’s medieval popularity.

Gothic Transformations and the Reformation

The 15th century brought significant Gothic modifications: vaulted naves, an extended choir, and enriched chapels, mirroring Nuremberg’s civic prosperity (Wikipedia). With the Reformation in 1525, the abbey was dissolved and the church converted for Protestant worship, marking a profound shift in identity and use (Dappled Things).

Baroque Rebirth

A catastrophic fire in 1696 destroyed the church and monastery. Between 1711 and 1718, architects Johann and Gottlieb Trost rebuilt St. Egidien as Nuremberg’s Baroque masterpiece. The design featured an oval nave, opulent stucco by Donato Polli, and ceiling frescoes by Daniel Preisler and Johann Martin Schuster. Christoph Wilhelm II. Tucher von Simmelsdorf was a key patron (Wikipedia; SpottingHistory).

World War II Destruction and Reconstruction

In 1945, Allied bombing caused severe destruction. From 1946–1959, architect Rudolf Gröschel directed restoration, reconstructing the spatial layout and preserving select Baroque features, though much ornamentation was lost (Wikipedia).

Artistic Heritage

St. Egidien preserves medieval and Renaissance art in its chapels, including works by Adam Kraft, Veit Stoß, and the Vischer family (Egidienkirche). Its musical tradition is notable, with an organ history dating to 1460 and a celebrated Rieger Orgelbau instrument installed in 1963.

Modern Role and Community Life

Today, St. Egidien serves as both a parish church and a “Kulturkirche,” hosting concerts, interfaith events, and exhibitions. Its programming bridges spiritual tradition with contemporary cultural expression (tourismus.nuernberg.de; Egidienkirche).

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours

Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sundays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official website before visiting.

Tickets and Admission

Admission: Free (no tickets required)
Donations: Welcome to support church maintenance and cultural programs

Special access to chapels (Euchariuskapelle, Tetzelkapelle, Wolfgangskapelle) requires advance arrangement (tourismus.nuernberg.de).

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible: Ramps and accessible restrooms available
Assistance: Staff can help with special needs upon request

Tours and Events

Guided Tours: Available by advance booking through the parish office or tourism office (Egidienkirche)
Self-Guided Tours: Use apps like GPSmyCity
Concerts and Exhibitions: Regularly hosted; check the events calendar

Getting There

Address: Egidienplatz 12, 90403 Nürnberg
Public Transport: From Hauptbahnhof, take U1 to ‘Plärrer,’ then tram 9 to ‘Egidienplatz’
Parking: Public garages nearby
Walking: 10–15 minutes from Nuremberg Castle and Hauptmarkt (evendo.com)

Nearby Attractions

Nuremberg Castle (Kaiserburg)
Hauptmarkt
St. Sebaldus Church
Toy Museum

Cafés, shops, and hotels are within walking distance for a complete Old Town experience (wanderboat.ai).

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or late afternoons for tranquility
Length of Visit: 30–60 minutes; longer for concerts or chapels
Dress Code: Modest attire recommended, especially during services
Photography: Permitted; avoid flash during services or concerts
Amenities: Restrooms and information available onsite; materials in German and English
NÜRNBERG CARD + FÜRTH: Consider for free entry to museums, attractions, and transit (tourismus.nuernberg.de)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are St. Egidien’s visiting hours?
A: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, admission is free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by advance booking; self-guided options also exist.

Q: Is St. Egidien wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, including ramps and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I attend concerts or cultural events?
A: Yes, the church regularly hosts concerts and exhibitions.

Q: How do I get to the church by public transport?
A: Take U-Bahn line U1 to ‘Plärrer,’ then tram 9 to ‘Egidienplatz.’

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, but be respectful during services.

Q: How can I access the historic chapels?
A: Special request is required; contact the church in advance.

Conclusion

St. Egidien Church is a profound symbol of Nuremberg’s resilience and cultural vibrancy. Its centuries-spanning architecture, pivotal role in the Reformation, and continued service as a hub for worship and the arts make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Nuremberg’s historical heart. Take advantage of free admission, accessible facilities, and a robust calendar of events—and enrich your experience with guided or self-guided tours.

For up-to-date information and event listings, visit the official church website or the Nuremberg tourism portal. Enhance your exploration with the Audiala app for audio guides and real-time updates.

Experience St. Egidien—where Nuremberg’s past and present meet in a living celebration of faith, art, and community.