Cathedral St. Stephan

The History Behind This Masterpiece

The history of Cathedral St. Stephan dates back to the 8th century, though the current structure was built between 1668 and 1693 in the Baroque style after a fire destroyed the earlier Romanesque church. The design was influenced by renowned architect Carlo Lurago, with construction overseen by the Bishop of Passau, who wanted to create a cathedral that could match the grandeur of other European churches.

The cathedral’s most remarkable feature is its organ, which boasts over 17,000 pipes and 233 stops, making it one of the largest in the world. The instrument was installed in the 1920s and remains an exceptional feature, played during concerts and services. The church’s Baroque elements, including beautiful frescoes by artists such as Bartolomeo Altomonte, add to its historical and artistic significance.

Getting There – The Scenic Route

By Car: Passau is easily accessible by car, located near the borders of Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic. From Munich, it takes around 1.5 hours to drive to Passau via the A3 autobahn. Parking is available in the city center, but it’s best to check for parking zones close to the cathedral.

By Train: Passau is well-connected by train from major Bavarian cities. The Passau main station (Hauptbahnhof) is just a short walk or bus ride from the cathedral. Trains from Munich or Regensburg typically take around 2.5 hours.

By Bus: Several bus lines also service Passau, with direct routes from cities like Munich and Linz. The bus station is a 10-15 minute walk from the cathedral.

Castle Entry

• Entry to the cathedral is free; however, donations are encouraged to help maintain the building and its artwork.

• Guided tours: €6 per person (approximately)

• Organ concert tickets: Prices vary depending on the concert, typically ranging from €10 to €20.

Opening Hours

• Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

• The cathedral is closed during religious services, but services are typically held on Sunday mornings and other liturgical occasions.

Tips for Your Visit 

• Attend a Concert: If you’re visiting in the evening, try to catch an organ concert. The acoustics inside the cathedral are extraordinary, and listening to the powerful sound of the organ is an unforgettable experience.

• Climb the Tower: For stunning views of Passau and the surrounding landscape, be sure to climb the 70-meter tower. The view from the top offers a unique perspective of the city’s Baroque architecture and the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers.

• Respect the Services: If you’re visiting during a service, be mindful of the religious ceremony. It’s a good idea to visit before or after mass if you prefer a quieter experience.

• Explore the Surroundings: After your visit to the cathedral, take some time to explore the charming streets of Passau, which are filled with historic buildings, quaint cafes, and picturesque views along the rivers.