Three Kings Chapel, Dinkelsbühl

Church in Dinkelsbühl

Three Kings Chapel Dinkelsbuhl
Three Kings Chapel Dinkelsbuhl
© Andrew Ashton

The Three Kings Chapel is one of the best places to visit in Dinkelsbühl if you enjoy quieter historic sites that blend medieval architecture with meaningful modern remembrance. This small, one-storeyed chapel, first mentioned in records in 1378, sits subtly along the town's historic streets, distinguished by its simple Gothic features, including pointed arched windows that have remained a defining element for centuries. Despite its modest size, it offers a surprisingly rich glimpse into Dinkelsbühl's layered past.

Though its tower was dismantled in the 19th century and replaced with a hipped roof, the building retains its medieval charm. Today, the chapel houses a memorial and information panel honouring the victims of the NS regime, providing a contemplative space that contrasts with the surrounding medieval architecture. This spot is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Dinkelsbühl, particularly for visitors interested in reflective historical sites.

History and Significance of the Three Kings Chapel

The Three Kings Chapel appears in written records as early as 1378, placing its origins firmly within the late medieval period. The simple Gothic design, characterised by pointed arched windows and a compact layout, reflects both the architectural traditions of the time and the chapel's role as a modest place of devotion. Small chapels like this often served nearby neighbourhoods or particular spiritual groups within the town.

In the 19th century, the chapel underwent significant structural change when its tower was dismantled down to the ground floor. Instead of rebuilding the tower, a hipped roof was added, giving the structure the appearance it has today. While the tower’s removal altered the chapel’s medieval silhouette, the surviving stonework and original window shapes preserve much of its historical character.

The chapel's modern significance lies in its function as a memorial space. It now houses an information panel dedicated to the victims of the NS regime, providing insight into the town's more recent history and offering a quiet place for reflection. This blend of medieval architecture and 20th-century remembrance gives the Three Kings Chapel a unique depth rarely found in such small buildings.

Things to See and Do in the Three Kings Chapel

The chapel’s exterior is the first feature to explore, where you can admire its pointed arched windows and simple stone construction. Despite its size, it is a fine example of Gothic architecture adapted for a small neighbourhood congregation rather than a grand parish church. The hipped roof, added in the 19th century, creates a contrast with the medieval stonework, reflecting the changes the building has undergone over time.

Inside, the chapel now serves as a memorial rather than an active place of worship. The information panel provides thoughtful context about the victims of the NS regime, connecting Dinkelsbühl’s medieval past with the broader history of 20th-century Germany. It’s a place for quiet contemplation, inviting visitors to pause during their exploration of the town.

A short visit to the chapel pairs well with nearby historic streets and other medieval landmarks. The surrounding lanes offer opportunities for slow, atmospheric wandering that helps bring the chapel’s centuries-long story to life.

How to Get to the Three Kings Chapel

The nearest major airports to Dinkelsbühl are Nuremberg Airport and Stuttgart Airport, both offering regular domestic and international connections. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Dinkelsbühl on Booking.com.

Dinkelsbühl does not have its own train station. Visitors usually travel via train to Dombühl or Ansbach, where frequent regional services run from Nuremberg and beyond. From these stations, buses link directly to the town's historic centre. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car is straightforward, with scenic routes connecting Dinkelsbühl to Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and the Romantic Road. Parking is available outside the town walls, allowing for an easy walk to the chapel. If you are looking to rent a car in Germany I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Three Kings Chapel

  • Best time to visit the Three Kings Chapel: Spring to early autumn offers pleasant walking weather in the old town.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: The chapel is free to visit.
  • Opening hours: Generally accessible during daytime hours; availability may vary.
  • Official website: Check the Dinkelsbühl tourism page for updated information.
  • How long to spend: Around 10-20 minutes is enough for the memorial and exterior.
  • Accessibility: The area around the chapel is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors.
  • Facilities: Cafés, shops, and restrooms are nearby inside the old town.
  • Photography tip: Capture the pointed arched windows from an angle to highlight their Gothic shape.
  • Guided tours: Some local tours mention the chapel as part of broader historical themes.
  • Nearby food options: Several traditional Bavarian restaurants and cafés are within a short walk.

Where to Stay close to the Three Kings Chapel

Staying within the old town places you near the Three Kings Chapel and Dinkelsbühl's many atmospheric lanes. A classic choice is Hotel Deutsches Haus, offering historic style at the heart of town. For modern comfort in carefully restored surroundings, Hezelhof Hotel is an excellent option. Travellers also enjoy Goldene Rose, which provides a cosy base close to several historic landmarks.

Is the Three Kings Chapel Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Three Kings Chapel is worth visiting, especially for travellers who appreciate smaller, under-the-radar historic sites. Its Gothic origins, 19th-century alterations, and modern role as a memorial create a powerful blend of architecture and remembrance. It offers a meaningful pause amid the more prominent landmarks of Dinkelsbühl.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (340)

The Shrine of the Three Kings, housed at Domkloster 4 in Köln, is an elaborate gilded reliquary inside the cathedral that visitors describe as richly decorated with gold, silver, filigree, enamel and hundreds of jewels, crafted in the form of a basilica with three sarcophagi; it is believed to contain the bones of the Biblical Magi and is a highlight noted on guided tours that also let you view the high altar, while many guests remark on the cathedral’s soaring Gothic interior that makes you feel small and rewards visitors with stunning stained glass and other priceless treasures.

Hervé
a year ago
"Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is a towering masterpiece of Gothic architecture located in Cologne, Germany. Construction began in 1248 and wascompleted over 600 years later in 1880. The cathedral is renowned for its immense twin spires, which dominate the city’s skyline, and its intricate facade. Inside, it houses priceless treasures, including the Shrine of the Three Kings, believed to contain relics of the Biblical Magi, and stu ing stained glass windows. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cologne Cathedral is one of the most visited landmarks in Europe, symbolizing Germany’s rich cultural and religious heritage...."
sergio s
4 months ago
"A beautiful church to visit while in the area."
macedonboy
6 years ago
"Not sure why this is a separate attraction as it’s inside the Cologne Cathedral. The shrine is a reliquary believed to contain the bones of the threemagi who visited Jesus. “Borrowed” by Babarossa from the Church of Saint Eustorgio in Milan, it’s been in Cologne since the 12th century. The exterior decoration of gold and silver gilds are a masterpiece of medieval metalwork. As with most shrines, the figures are a mixture of prophets, apostles and Jesus. If you go on the guided tour with Dom Forum, you’ll get to visit the high Altar and get a better look at the shrine...."

FAQs for Visiting the Three Kings Chapel

It is documented as early as 1378, placing it firmly within the medieval period.
Yes, it is usually open during the day, though access may vary.
Its tower was dismantled in the 19th century and replaced with the current roof structure.
A memorial and information panel honouring victims of the NS regime.
It sits within Dinkelsbühl’s old town and is easy to find while exploring on foot.

Nearby Attractions to the Three Kings Chapel

The Three Kings Chapel appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Dinkelsbühl!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Address: Adlergäßlein 3, 91550 Dinkelsbühl, Germany
Dinkelsbühl: 1 km

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs