Residenzplatz

Lonely Planet review

Pride of place on this showy square belongs to the 18th-century Neue Bischöfliche Residenz (New Bishop's Residence). Melchior Hefele, a student of Balthasar Neumann, drafted the stucco-draped façade, as well as the rococo staircase, which winds towards a wonderfully over-the-top ceiling fresco entitled The Gods of Olympus Protecting Immortal Passau .

The bishops resided in these splendid digs until 1871. Today, the diocese administration occupies most of the rooms, but several have been set aside for the Domschatz und Diözesanmuseum (Cathedral Treasury & Museum). The ecclesiastical finery - including monstrances, vestments, sculptures and paintings - exemplifies the wealth and power of the Church rulers. The museum is accessed from inside the Dom except during the organ concerts when entry is via Residenzplatz.

At the square's centre is the Wittelsbacher Brunnen (1903), a sprightly fountain depicting Mary (Bavaria's patron saint) surrounded by allegories of the three local rivers.