Landmark · Old Town

New Episcopal Residence

The New Episcopal Residence on Residenzplatz behind the cathedral was, from the 18th century, the prestigious town apartment of Passau's prince-bishops, who embodied both worldly power and ecclesiastical dignity. The elegant façade, designed in the Venetian late Baroque, blends discreetly into the square — the true marvel is hidden inside.

There unfolds one of the finest Rococo staircases in southern Germany: a spacious, elegantly sweeping stairway framed by exuberant white stucco, floating ceiling frescoes and ornately wrought balustrades — a theatrical overture that leaves visitors in awe as they climb. The adjoining state rooms house the Cathedral Treasury and Diocesan Museum, which displays precious liturgical implements, goldsmiths' work, magnificent vestments and sacred art from the rich history of the Diocese of Passau.

The Residenzplatz in front, with its Baroque Wittelsbach Fountain, the Marian column and grand patrician and canons' houses, ranks among the most beautiful squares in the upper old town. In summer it is a popular meeting point with open-air cafés — and an ideal place to soak up the almost southern, Italianate atmosphere of Passau.

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