Discovering Freising: A Journey Through Time

Freising, a town that whispers tales of the past, is a place that has long intrigued me. As a former university professor of European history, the allure of Bavaria’s oldest town was irresistible. Nestled on the banks of the Isar River, Freising is a city that has played a pivotal role in the religious and cultural tapestry of Bavaria. My wife and I embarked on the Freising Walking Tour to delve into its rich history and architectural splendor.

Our journey began at the heart of the city, the Pfarrkirche St. Georg. This magnificent church, with its baroque tower, stands as a testament to the town’s historical significance. As we wandered through its hallowed halls, I couldn’t help but reflect on the countless generations that have passed through its doors. The church’s architecture, a blend of Gothic and Baroque styles, speaks to the evolution of Freising over the centuries. Our guide, a local historian, enriched our experience with anecdotes about the church’s role in the community and its architectural transformations.

The Heart of Freising: Marienplatz and Beyond

Leaving the church, we strolled towards Marienplatz, the vibrant center of Freising’s old town. The square is dominated by the Mariensaule, a striking red marble column crowned with a statue of the Virgin Mary. Erected in 1674, this monument is a tribute to St. Mary, the patron saint of Bavaria. As I stood there, I was reminded of the similar column in Munich, a symbol of the deep-rooted religious traditions that permeate this region.

The square itself is a lively hub, flanked by historic townhouses that have witnessed the ebb and flow of Freising’s history. Our guide led us through the picturesque alleys, each turn revealing a new facet of the town’s past. The blend of medieval and modern architecture creates a unique ambiance, a reminder of Freising’s ability to adapt and thrive through the ages.

Echoes of the Past: The Altes Gefangnis and Freisinger Dom

Our exploration continued with a visit to the Altes Gefangnis, the old prison of Freising. This building, once part of the city’s court, has a dark history tied to the witch trials of the 18th century. Known as the “witch tower,” it stands as a somber reminder of a tumultuous period in Freising’s past. The stories of those who were imprisoned here linger in the air, a poignant reflection on the town’s complex history.

The final stop on our tour was the Freisinger Dom, the Cathedral of St. Maria and St. Korbinian. This romanesque masterpiece, with its rococo interior, is a jewel in Freising’s architectural crown. The cathedral’s history is intertwined with that of the Catholic Archdiocese of Munich and Freising, and it is here that Pope Benedict XVI was ordained a priest. As I stood in the four-nave crypt, where the tomb of St. Corbinian lies, I felt a profound connection to the centuries of faith and devotion that have shaped this town.

Freising is a place where history comes alive, where every corner tells a story. Our half-day walking tour was a journey through time, a chance to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of Bavaria’s oldest town. For those who share my passion for history and architecture, Freising is a destination that promises to captivate and inspire.