Munich's oldest parish church, affectionately known by the locals as Alter Peter (Old Peter), marks the site where monks in 1158 began building the core of today's Munich. The church is famous for the lantern-dome tower created when the building was remodelled in Renaissance style in the 17th century. The most extraordinary feature of the tower is its eight asymmetrically placed clock faces, ostensibly designed so that eight people can tell the time at once. The renowned chimes include one of the oldest bells in Germany; the best time to hear them is 15:00 on Saturday, when they ring in the Sabbath. The 306-step climb to the viewing platform is rewarded by a dramatic view of Munich with its magnificent Alpine backdrop.