Church of Our Lady in Meissen

The Church of Our Lady in Meissen is a late Gothic hall church from the 15th century, located at the market square in Meissen. It is the oldest civic church in the city, and its distinctive octagonal tower has shaped the townscape for over 500 years. The tower houses the world's first playable carillon made of Meissen porcelain. The church combines rich history, artistic furnishings, and vibrant community life. A new addition is the world's first organ register with pipes made of Meissen porcelain, installed in 2025 in the Jehmlich organ. This register, placed on the gallery balustrade, comprises 37 porcelain pipes, complemented by wooden and metal ones. The idea originated with Ludwig Zepner, former artistic director of the Meissen State Porcelain Manufactory, who in 2000 first succeeded in making tunable porcelain organ pipes. As early as around 1730, Augustus the Strong had commissioned similar experiments, but only modern manufacturing made the breakthrough possible. The dedication of this unique work took place on Pentecost Sunday 2025, 270 years after the original royal commission. Visitors can admire the church and also climb the tower (193 steps) with a guide, from where a picturesque view over the old town and the Meissen Elbe valley unfolds. Services are held on Sundays at 10:00. Admission is free, and information is available at 03521 453832.