Church of the Holy Spirit, Heidelberg

The Church of the Holy Spirit (Heiliggeistkirche) in Heidelberg is a large Gothic parish church located on the city’s main market square in the Altstadt, with major construction phases in the 14th and 15th centuries.

The building is notable for its prominent location on the Marktplatz and for its interior and exterior Gothic features. It played an important role in the city’s religious life and was historically associated with the Palatine library, which was housed there until it was taken to Rome during the early 17th century.

Construction began in the late medieval period and the church has been altered and repaired across centuries, serving both Protestant and Catholic congregations at different times. It remains one of Heidelberg’s principal historic monuments and an active parish church.

The church occupies a central site in Heidelberg’s old town, adjacent to the Hauptstrasse pedestrian artery and a short walk from the Neckar river and the foot of Heidelberg Castle.

• Central location: The church sits on Heidelberg's central market square and is a visible landmark from the Hauptstrasse pedestrian street and terraces along the Neckar river.