Ulm - Muenster Church

In the center of Ulm stands the Minster, Germany's largest Gothic church after Cologne Cathedral (1377-1529 and 1844-90; Protestant). The soaring spire (ascent recommended, but arduous; magnificent views, extending in clear weather to the Alps), begun by Ulrich von Ensingen in 1392 and finally completed in 1880-90 on the basis of a sketch left by Matthias Böblinger, is the tallest church spire in the world (161m/528ft, compared with Cologne Cathedral's 157m/515ft). In the interior are fine choir-stalls (1469-74) by Jörg Syrlin the Elder.

The Münsterplatz is being altered to a design by the American architect Richard Meier.

After climbing to the top level at 143m there is a panoramic view of Ulm in Baden-Württemberg and Neu-Ulm in Bavaria and, in clear weather, a vista of the Alps from Säntis to the Zugspitze. The final stairwell to the top (known

as the 3rd Gallery) is a tall, spiraling staircase that has barely enough room for one person.