Shock for Ulm: Münster loses the title of tallest church tower!

Shock for Ulm: Münster loses the title of tallest church tower!

In a surprising turn of events, Ulm Minster has lost its title as the tallest church tower in the world. At 163 meters, the Sagrada Família in Barcelona now towers over the impressive 161.5 meters of the famous Ulm building. This news was officially announced on Thursday, October 30, 2025 and is causing excitement in the university town.

The cathedral dean Torsten Krannich and tower keeper Jürgen Schnittker reacted with astonishment to the news, which, although painful, should not diminish the entire importance of the Ulm cathedral. Mayor Martin Ansbacher emphasized that the city can boast more than just altitude records.

The new guardian of the heights

The Sagrada Família, which has been under construction since 1882 and is the masterpiece of architect Antoni Gaudí, is expected to be completed by 2030. The central tower, expected to reach a height of 172.5 meters by the end of 2023, will reach its peak on the 100th anniversary of Gaudí's death in 2026. The final construction phase of the Sagrada Família tower is marked by the installation of the first cross segment, which is 7.25 meters high and weighs 24 tons. This monumental church will remain a true architectural landmark even after its completion.

For Ulm, however, the loss of the world record also has practical consequences. With around 105,000 tourists visiting Ulm Minster every year, generating around 400,000 euros in income, the pressure to continue to make a good impression is increasing. Tourism managing director Wolfgang Dieterich is therefore already planning discussions on adapting advertising materials. Souvenirs and brochures in particular need to be reprinted to reflect the new reality.

A return to the heights?

In order to regain the title, the possibility of extending the top of the tower is even being considered. An antenna or radio mast could be conceivable to bring the Ulm skyline back into the conversation. However, Krannich is optimistic and sees Ulm Minster not only as defined by its height record. Historically, it remains the largest church tower.

The discussion about the records also has an impact on the perception of the city. One thing is certain: whether with or without a world record, Ulm Minster will continue to be valued as a cultural heritage. Tourists like the American couple Hunter and Danielle Gibson came because of this title, but the historical significance of the cathedral also attracts many visitors.

What happens next? While the official record change stirs up emotions, it remains exciting to see how the city of Ulm will adapt to the new situation.

Further details can be found on the websites of Picture and daily news be read.