St. Burkard's Church, Oberailsfeld
St. Burkard's Church, Oberailsfeld
Highlight • Religious Site
Hiking
4.4
(154)
Mountain biking
4.8
(39)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
The St. Burkard Church in Oberailsfeld is a protected Roman Catholic parish church situated at an elevation of 409 metres in the charming village of Oberailsfeld. Located within the district of Ahorntal, in the Bayreuth region of Upper Franconia, Bavaria, Germany, this stately Baroque church is a significant historical and religious landmark in the heart of Fränkische Schweiz Nord (Franconian Switzerland North). Built between 1769 and 1770, it stands as a testament to 18th-century architecture and local heritage.
Visitors consistently…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
March 27, 2020
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near St. Burkard's Church, Oberailsfeld

1
riders
28.9km
02:00
440m
440m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 410 m
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Sunday 19 July
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18 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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While there are no officially published fixed opening hours, St. Burkard Church is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to visit during the day to fully appreciate its intricate interior details and historical artifacts.
The church is centrally located within the village of Oberailsfeld, suggesting convenient access. While specific dedicated parking information is not always highlighted, visitors can usually find parking spots within the village. It's recommended to look for public parking areas nearby.
Yes, Oberailsfeld and the surrounding Franconian Switzerland region offer various walking routes suitable for families. Many trails are accessible directly from the village, allowing you to combine a visit to the church with a pleasant stroll through the scenic landscape. Look for shorter, less strenuous paths for younger children.
Many of the hiking and walking trails in the Franconian Switzerland area are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in populated areas or nature reserves, and to clean up after them. Inside the church, dogs are generally not permitted, except for service animals.
Most visitors find that 30 to 60 minutes is sufficient to explore the interior of St. Burkard Church, appreciate its Baroque architecture, the high altar, the historical altarpieces, and the restored organ. If you wish to combine it with a walk in the surrounding area, plan for additional time.
As a historic Baroque building, St. Burkard Church may have limited accessibility. Entrances might have steps, and the interior layout could present challenges for wheelchair users. It's recommended to contact the local parish office in advance for specific information regarding accessibility.
As a religious site, respectful attire is always appreciated. While there's no strict dress code, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly. This generally means covering shoulders and knees, and avoiding overly casual clothing.
Oberailsfeld is a small village, but you may find local eateries or guesthouses that offer refreshments. For a wider selection of cafes and restaurants, you might need to explore slightly larger towns in the immediate vicinity of Ahorntal or the broader Franconian Switzerland region.
The church itself is a protected monument and a significant landmark. Beyond the church, the primary attraction is the natural beauty of Franconian Switzerland, offering numerous hiking trails, viewpoints, and unique rock formations. You can find many other historical sites and natural features within a short drive or hike from Oberailsfeld.
While the church itself primarily serves as a place of worship and historical interest year-round, the surrounding region of Franconian Switzerland offers various winter activities such as winter hiking or cross-country skiing, depending on snow conditions. The church interior provides a warm and peaceful retreat during colder months.
The late Gothic image of Mary, prominently featured on the left side altar, is particularly significant because it predates the current Baroque church building. This artifact offers a tangible link to the earlier church structure from 1608/09 and even older ecclesiastical presences in Oberailsfeld, highlighting the continuous religious history of the site.