Visitor Insights
Visiting Frankfurt Germany Temple
The Frankfurt Germany Temple is located in a serene area of Friedrichsdorf, offering a peaceful environment for visitors. The grounds are beautifully maintained with park-like landscaping, colorful shrubs, and flowers, creating a welcoming atmosphere. While there is no visitor's center on site, the temple grounds are open to the public, providing an opportunity for quiet reflection and appreciation of the temple's architecture and surroundings.
Highlights
- Beautifully landscaped grounds perfect for quiet reflection.
- Architecturally stunning exterior featuring Bethel white granite.
- Conveniently located near major highways, making it easily accessible.
Things to Know
- There is no visitor's center on site.
- Patron housing is available for those attending from afar.
Location
Talstrasse 10, 61381 Friedrichsdorf/TS, Germany
Hours: The temple operates on a varied schedule. Please check the official website for specific session times.
Getting There: The temple is located at Talstrasse 10, 61381 Friedrichsdorf/TS, Germany. It is accessible by car, with parking available on site. Public transportation options are also available.
Get DirectionsAbout
The Frankfurt Germany Temple stands as a beacon of faith in Friedrichsdorf, Germany. Announced on April 1, 1981, by Church President Spencer W. Kimball, this temple is a testament to the enduring presence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Europe. Its construction and subsequent dedication marked a significant milestone for members in Germany and surrounding countries, providing a sacred space for worship, reflection, and eternal ordinances.
The temple's location in the heart of Germany holds historical significance, particularly following the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990. The Frankfurt Germany Temple and the Freiberg Germany Temple, which once belonged to separate nations, became symbols of unity and spiritual connection for members across the newly unified country. This temple not only serves the Latter-day Saints in Germany but also those in Luxembourg, northern France, Austria, and parts of the Middle East and Balkans, fostering a sense of community and shared faith among diverse cultures.
Following a period of renovation and enlargement, the Frankfurt Germany Temple was rededicated on October 20, 2019, by Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf. The renovated temple features updated facilities and enhanced landscaping, ensuring that it continues to serve as a welcoming and inspiring place for all who enter its doors. The Frankfurt Germany Temple remains a cherished landmark, embodying the principles of faith, family, and service that are central to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Gallery
Symbolic Elements
The temple's exterior features intricate carvings, each rich with spiritual meaning:
Angel Moroni Statue
The Angel Moroni statue atop the spire symbolizes the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This statue, a common feature of temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, represents the divine messenger who revealed the Book of Mormon to Joseph Smith. It serves as a reminder of the temple's sacred purpose and the blessings available within.
Bethel White Granite
The exterior of the Frankfurt Germany Temple is constructed with Bethel white granite from northern Vermont. This durable and elegant stone signifies the strength and permanence of the temple. The choice of granite reflects the enduring nature of the covenants made within the temple walls.
Single Spire Design
The temple's single spire reaches towards the heavens, symbolizing the connection between earth and the divine. This architectural feature is a visual representation of the temple's role as a place of spiritual elevation and communion with God. The spire serves as a beacon, inviting all to come and partake of the blessings offered within.
Copper Roof
The copper roof of the Frankfurt Germany Temple not only provides protection from the elements but also symbolizes purity and refinement. Copper, known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, represents the enduring nature of the temple and the eternal principles taught within its walls. The roof's reflective surface adds to the temple's visual appeal.
Ordinance Rooms
The Frankfurt Germany Temple includes four ordinance rooms, each dedicated to specific sacred ceremonies. These rooms provide a dedicated space for members to participate in ordinances such as the endowment, which deepens their understanding of God's plan and their relationship with Him. The ordinance rooms are designed to create a reverent and peaceful atmosphere.
Sealing Rooms
The temple features four sealing rooms, where marriages are performed to unite families for eternity. These rooms are adorned with beautiful furnishings and artwork, creating a sacred space for couples to make eternal covenants. The sealing rooms symbolize the eternal nature of love and family relationships.
Baptistry
The baptistry in the Frankfurt Germany Temple is used for performing baptisms for the dead, a sacred ordinance that extends the blessings of the gospel to those who have passed on without the opportunity to be baptized. The baptistry, often featuring symbolic artwork and design, represents the cleansing and renewing power of baptism.
Landscaped Grounds
The meticulously landscaped grounds surrounding the Frankfurt Germany Temple provide a tranquil and inviting environment for visitors. The colorful shrubs, flowers, and trees create a park-like setting that encourages reflection and spiritual contemplation. The grounds symbolize the beauty and order of God's creation.
Interesting Facts
The Frankfurt Germany Temple was the fifth temple built in Europe.
Construction met significant opposition during the early planning phases.
President Gordon B. Hinckley told local officials they would not regret their decision to permit construction.
The Frankfurt Germany Temple and the Freiberg Germany Temple originally belonged to separate nations (West and East Germany).
During its week-and-a-half open house in 1987, approximately 70,000 people visited the temple.
The temple closed for renovation on September 7, 2015, and the renovation was expected to take two years, but structural issues in the foundation doubled the construction time.
The baptistry was relocated to an underground extension during the renovation.
The exterior stone is Bethel white granite from Vermont.
During the renovation, care was taken to preserve key historic features of the exterior, such as the stone cladding and copper roof.
The temple serves members in Germany, Luxembourg, northern France, Austria, and parts of the Middle East and Balkans.
Common Questions
What is the purpose of the Frankfurt Germany Temple?
The Frankfurt Germany Temple serves as a sacred place where members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can participate in religious ordinances, make covenants with God, and strengthen their faith. It is a house of the Lord, dedicated to serving members in Germany, Luxembourg, northern France, Austria, and parts of the Middle East and Balkans.
When was the Frankfurt Germany Temple dedicated?
The Frankfurt Germany Temple was originally dedicated on August 28-30, 1987, by Church President Ezra Taft Benson. Following renovations, it was rededicated on October 20, 2019, by Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf.
What are the architectural features of the Frankfurt Germany Temple?
The Frankfurt Germany Temple features a modern, detached single-spire design with an exterior finish of Bethel white granite from northern Vermont and a copper roof. The spire, including the Angel Moroni statue, stands 82 feet (25 meters) tall. The temple includes four ordinance rooms, four sealing rooms, and a baptistry.
How can I visit the Frankfurt Germany Temple?
The grounds of the Frankfurt Germany Temple are open to the public and feature park-like landscaping. The temple is located at Talstrasse 10, 61381 Friedrichsdorf/TS, Germany. While there is no visitor's center on site, the grounds provide a peaceful environment for reflection. Please note that only members with a valid temple recommend can enter the temple itself.
What is the significance of the Frankfurt Germany Temple in the region?
The Frankfurt Germany Temple holds historical significance, particularly following the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990. It symbolizes unity and spiritual connection for members across the newly unified country and serves as a beacon of faith for Latter-day Saints in Germany and surrounding countries.
Featured Stories
Dedication of the Frankfurt Germany Temple
August 28-30, 1987
The dedication of the Frankfurt Germany Temple in August 1987 was a momentous occasion for Latter-day Saints across Europe. Church President Ezra Taft Benson presided over the services, which were attended by approximately 12,570 members from Germany, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France. The dedication marked the culmination of years of planning and construction, and it provided a sacred space for members to worship and participate in temple ordinances.
The dedication services were filled with spiritual power and emotion, as members expressed their gratitude for the blessings of the temple. Many had traveled long distances to attend, and they felt a deep sense of unity and connection with one another. The dedication of the Frankfurt Germany Temple was a testament to the faith and dedication of Latter-day Saints in Europe.
Source: The Church News
Renovation and Rededication of the Frankfurt Germany Temple
October 20, 2019
In September 2015, the Frankfurt Germany Temple closed for extensive renovation and enlargement. The renovation project included updates to the temple's interior and exterior, as well as the relocation of the baptistry to an underground extension. The renovation was expected to take two years, but structural issues in the foundation doubled the construction time. Despite the challenges, the project was completed with great care and attention to detail.
Following the completion of the renovation, a public open house was held in September 2019, allowing visitors to tour the newly renovated temple. Approximately 29,000 guests attended the open house, expressing their admiration for the temple's beauty and sacred atmosphere. On October 20, 2019, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf rededicated the Frankfurt Germany Temple, marking a new chapter in its history.
Source: LDS Living
The Temple's Role in a Divided Germany
1987-1990
The Frankfurt Germany Temple held a unique significance during the final years of divided Germany. Dedicated in 1987, it stood in West Germany while the Freiberg Germany Temple was located in East Germany. For members living on both sides of the Iron Curtain, these temples represented beacons of hope and spiritual unity amidst political division. The reunification of Germany in 1990 brought a new era of freedom and connection, allowing members from both sides to more easily access and share in the blessings of the temple.
The existence of temples in both East and West Germany during this period underscored the Church's commitment to serving its members regardless of political boundaries. These sacred structures provided a sense of belonging and spiritual strength during a time of great uncertainty and change. The Frankfurt Germany Temple remains a symbol of faith and resilience for Latter-day Saints in Germany and beyond.
Source: The Church News
Timeline
Temple Announced
Church President Spencer W. Kimball announces the construction of the Frankfurt Germany Temple.
MilestoneGroundbreaking Ceremony
Groundbreaking and site dedication are held, presided over by Gordon B. Hinckley.
component.timeline.groundbreakingTemple Dedication
The Frankfurt Germany Temple is dedicated by Church President Ezra Taft Benson.
DedicationDedication Concludes
The three-day dedication of the Frankfurt Germany Temple concludes.
DedicationGerman Reunification
Germany reunites, three years after the temple dedication, symbolizing unity for members in the region.
EventTemple Closure for Renovation
The Frankfurt Germany Temple closes for extensive renovation and enlargement.
RenovationPublic Open House Begins
A public open house begins, allowing visitors to tour the newly renovated temple.
EventPublic Open House Concludes
The public open house concludes after approximately 29,000 guests tour the temple.
EventTemple Rededication
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf rededicates the Frankfurt Germany Temple.
DedicationFirst Temple in West Germany
The Frankfurt Germany Temple becomes the first temple in West Germany.
MilestoneRenovation Announcement
The Church announces plans to renovate and enlarge the Frankfurt Germany Temple.
RenovationSite Dedication
The site is dedicated for the construction of the Frankfurt Germany Temple.
component.timeline.groundbreakingDedication Attendance
Approximately 12,570 members attend the dedication of the Frankfurt Germany Temple.
EventRededication Attendance
Members and guests gather to celebrate the rededication of the Frankfurt Germany Temple.
EventTemple Announcement Impact
The announcement of the Frankfurt Germany Temple brings joy and anticipation to Latter-day Saints in Europe.
MilestoneHistory by Decade
1980s — Announcement and Construction
The 1980s marked a period of significant growth for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Europe, leading to the announcement of the Frankfurt Germany Temple on April 1, 1981, by Church President Spencer W. Kimball. This announcement brought great joy and anticipation to members in Germany and surrounding countries, who had long desired a temple closer to home. The groundbreaking ceremony, presided over by Gordon B. Hinckley, took place on July 1, 1985, signaling the commencement of construction.
1987 — Dedication and Early Years
The Frankfurt Germany Temple was dedicated on August 28-30, 1987, by Church President Ezra Taft Benson. The dedication services were attended by approximately 12,570 members from Germany, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France. The temple quickly became a center of spiritual activity, providing a sacred space for members to participate in temple ordinances and strengthen their faith.
1990s — Reunification and Growth
The 1990s brought significant changes to Germany, with the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990. The Frankfurt Germany Temple and the Freiberg Germany Temple, which had previously belonged to separate nations, became symbols of unity and spiritual connection for members across the newly unified country. The temple continued to serve as a beacon of faith and a source of strength for Latter-day Saints in the region.
2000s — Continued Service and Blessings
Throughout the 2000s, the Frankfurt Germany Temple continued to provide blessings and opportunities for spiritual growth to members in Germany and surrounding countries. The temple served as a place of refuge and renewal, where members could escape the cares of the world and focus on their relationship with God. The temple also played a vital role in strengthening families and communities.
2010s — Renovation and Rededication
In September 2015, the Frankfurt Germany Temple closed for extensive renovation and enlargement. The renovation project included updates to the temple's interior and exterior, as well as the relocation of the baptistry to an underground extension. Following the completion of the renovation, a public open house was held in September 2019, and the temple was rededicated on October 20, 2019, by Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf.
2020s — A Renewed Symbol of Faith
The 2020s mark a new chapter in the history of the Frankfurt Germany Temple, as it continues to serve as a renewed symbol of faith and a source of blessings for Latter-day Saints in Germany and beyond. The temple stands as a testament to the enduring presence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Europe and its commitment to serving its members and communities.
Architecture & Facilities
The Frankfurt Germany Temple features a modern, detached single-spire design, reflecting a blend of contemporary architectural principles with traditional temple aesthetics. The temple's design emphasizes simplicity and elegance, creating a sacred and inviting atmosphere. The exterior is clad in Bethel white granite, providing a sense of strength and permanence, while the copper roof adds a touch of warmth and refinement. The overall design is intended to inspire reverence and a sense of connection with the divine.
Building Materials
Exterior: Bethel White Granite
The exterior of the Frankfurt Germany Temple is clad in Bethel white granite, quarried from northern Vermont. This durable and elegant stone provides a sense of strength and permanence, reflecting the enduring nature of the covenants made within the temple.
Roof: Copper
The roof of the Frankfurt Germany Temple is made of copper, a material known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. The copper roof not only provides protection from the elements but also symbolizes purity and refinement, adding to the temple's visual appeal.
Interior: Fine Woodwork
The interior of the Frankfurt Germany Temple features fine woodwork, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The wood paneling, trim, and furnishings create a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the sense of reverence and peace within the temple.
Interior: Stained Glass
The stained glass windows of the Frankfurt Germany Temple add beauty and symbolism to the interior. The windows depict various religious motifs and scenes, allowing natural light to filter through and create a colorful and inspiring ambiance.
Interior Features
Celestial Room
The Celestial Room is the most sacred space within the Frankfurt Germany Temple, representing the presence of God. This room is designed to evoke a sense of peace and reverence, providing a space for quiet contemplation and prayer. The Celestial Room is adorned with beautiful furnishings and artwork, creating a heavenly atmosphere.
Baptistry
The baptistry in the Frankfurt Germany Temple is used for performing baptisms for the dead, a sacred ordinance that extends the blessings of the gospel to those who have passed on without the opportunity to be baptized. The baptistry, often featuring symbolic artwork and design, represents the cleansing and renewing power of baptism.
Sealing Rooms
The sealing rooms in the Frankfurt Germany Temple are where marriages are performed to unite families for eternity. These rooms are adorned with beautiful furnishings and artwork, creating a sacred space for couples to make eternal covenants. The sealing rooms symbolize the eternal nature of love and family relationships.
Instruction Rooms
The instruction rooms in the Frankfurt Germany Temple are used for teaching members about the plan of salvation and the principles of the gospel. These rooms provide a dedicated space for learning and spiritual growth, helping members to deepen their understanding of God's plan and their relationship with Him.
Temple Grounds
The grounds of the Frankfurt Germany Temple are meticulously landscaped, creating a tranquil and inviting environment for visitors. The colorful shrubs, flowers, and trees provide a park-like setting that encourages reflection and spiritual contemplation. The grounds also include pathways, benches, and other amenities for visitors to enjoy.
Additional Facilities
The Frankfurt Germany Temple includes patron housing for those traveling long distances to attend the temple. This facility provides comfortable and convenient accommodations, allowing members to focus on their spiritual experience without the added stress of finding lodging. The temple also includes administrative offices and other support facilities.
Religious Significance
The Frankfurt Germany Temple, as a temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, holds profound religious significance for its members. Rooted in the Christian theological tradition, particularly the Abrahamic lineage, the temple serves as a sacred space dedicated to the worship of God and the performance of eternal ordinances. It is considered a house of the Lord, a place where heaven and earth meet, and where individuals can draw closer to God through prayer, reflection, and sacred covenants.
The primary purpose of the Frankfurt Germany Temple is to provide a place where members of the Church can participate in sacred ordinances that are essential for their eternal progression. These ordinances, such as baptism for the dead, the endowment, and eternal marriage, are performed in the temple and are considered necessary for individuals to receive the fullness of God's blessings. The temple also serves as a center for spiritual learning, where members can deepen their understanding of the gospel and strengthen their commitment to Jesus Christ.
Sacred Ordinances
Baptism for the Dead
Baptism for the dead is a vicarious ordinance performed in the temple, allowing individuals to be baptized on behalf of those who have died without the opportunity to receive this essential ordinance. This practice reflects the Church's belief in the universality of salvation and the importance of extending the blessings of the gospel to all of God's children, regardless of when or where they lived.
The Endowment
The endowment is a sacred ordinance in which members receive instruction, make covenants with God, and are endowed with power from on high. This ordinance deepens their understanding of God's plan of salvation and prepares them to live righteously and fulfill their divine potential. The endowment is a transformative experience that strengthens individuals spiritually and helps them to draw closer to God.
Eternal Marriage
Eternal marriage, also known as sealing, is an ordinance performed in the temple that unites a husband and wife for eternity. This ordinance reflects the Church's belief in the eternal nature of love and family relationships. When a couple is sealed in the temple, their marriage is not only for this life but also for all eternity, ensuring that their family can be together forever.
The Temple as a House of Prayer
The Frankfurt Germany Temple is a house of prayer, a place where individuals can come to commune with God and seek His guidance and comfort. Members are encouraged to pray regularly in the temple, both individually and collectively, to express their gratitude, seek forgiveness, and ask for blessings. The temple provides a peaceful and reverent atmosphere that is conducive to prayer and spiritual reflection.
The Temple as a Symbol of Eternal Families
The Frankfurt Germany Temple is a symbol of eternal families, reflecting the Church's belief that families can be together forever through the power of the priesthood and the sacred ordinances performed in the temple. The temple provides a place where families can be sealed together for eternity, ensuring that their love and relationships will endure beyond this mortal life. The temple also serves as a reminder of the importance of strengthening family bonds and living righteously so that families can be worthy of eternal blessings.
Sources & Research
Every fact on Temples.org is backed by verified Sources & Research. Each piece of information is rated by source tier and confidence level.
View All Sources (4)
| Field | Source | Tier | Retrieved |
|---|---|---|---|
| About & Historical Background | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (opens in a new tab) | A | 2024-05-02 |
| Architectural Description | churchofjesuschristtemples.org (opens in a new tab) | C | 2024-05-02 |
| Interesting Facts | churchofjesuschristtemples.org (opens in a new tab) | C | 2024-05-02 |
| Open House Attendance | LDS Living (opens in a new tab) | B | 2024-05-02 |