Münster

Freiburg's 11th-century Münster is the monster of all minsters, a red-sandstone giant that looms above the half-timbered façades framing the square. Its riot of punctured spires and gargoyles flush scarlet in the dusk light.

The main portal is adorned with sculptures depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments - spy allegorical figures such as Voluptuousness (the one with snakes on her back) and Satan himself. Nearby are medieval wall markings used to ensure that merchandise (eg loaves of bread) were of the requisite size.

Square at the base, the sturdy tower becomes an octagon higher up and is crowned by a filigreed 116m-high spire. Ascend the tower for an excellent view of the church's intricate construction; on clear days you can spy the Vosges Mountains in France.

Inside the Münster, the kaleidoscopic stained-glass windows dazzle. Many were financed by various guilds - in the bottom panels look for a pretzel, scissors and other symbols of medieval trades. The high altar features a masterful triptych of the coronation of the Virgin Mary by Hans Baldung, best viewed on a guided tour.