St. Peter und Paul

Hidden amidst Augsburg’s bustling streets, St. Peter und Paul Church stands as a testament to centuries of faith and architectural brilliance. Constructed in 1608 by the renowned Elias Holl, this Catholic church, also known as St. Peter am Perlach, is a true Augsburg gem. Its Romanesque origins are still visible in the three naves of the hall church, whispering tales of a time long past. A small terracotta figure of Jesus Christ, dating back to around 1200, greets visitors in the entrance area. St. Peter und Paul Church is more than just bricks and mortar. It offers a sanctuary, a place of peace and quiet within the city’s vibrant core. People from near and far seek solace within its walls, drawn by the unique and captivating image of “Mary, Untier of Knots.” This 1700s painting, depicting Mary untying a knotted ribbon while crushing a serpent’s head, has resonated deeply with believers across the globe, particularly in Latin America. The story behind the painting is as compelling as the image itself. Augsburg patrician Hieronymus Ambrosius Langenmantel commissioned it in memory of his grandfather, Wolfgang Langenmantel, whose marriage was on the brink of collapse. Through the intercession of Jesuit priest Jakob Rem, who prayed to the Virgin Mary, the couple reconciled. The “Mary, Untier of Knots” painting became a symbol of hope and resolution. Interestingly, Pope Francis has been a devotee of this image since the 1980s, promoting its veneration in Argentina, where a copy resides in the San José del Talar church. Many pilgrims from South America make a special stop at St. Peter und Paul in Augsburg to see the original masterpiece. The church’s history is interwoven with the city’s own. The towering Perlachturm, Augsburg’s iconic landmark, serves as the church’s bell tower. St. Peter und Paul, with its rich history and unique artwork, stands as a beacon of faith in the heart of Augsburg, inviting all to seek solace and inspiration within its walls.