The Aachen Cathedralalso as Imperial Palace is one of the oldest and most important cathedrals in Europe. As UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of the Carolingian Empire, it is an impressive testimony to medieval architecture and European history. It was not only Coronation Church for the Roman-German emperors, but also the final resting place of Charlemagne and an important place of pilgrimage.
The history of Aachen Cathedral
-Foundation: Construction of the cathedral began around the year 800 AD. at the behest of CharlemagneAachen to his Imperial Palace made.
-Coronation Church: For over 600 years, from 936 to 1531were held in Aachen Cathedral 30 German kings and 12 queens crowned.
-Charlemagne: After his death in the year 814 Charlemagne was buried in the Palatine Chapel, making the cathedral the spiritual and political center of Europe.
The architecture - The Carolingian Palatine Chapel
The Palatinate ChapelThe oldest part of Aachen Cathedral is a masterpiece of Carolingian architecture and one of the best-preserved architectural achievements of the time.
Architectural highlights:
-Octagonal shapeThe central octagon is the focal point of the cathedral and symbolizes the connection between earth and heaven. It is reminiscent of Byzantine architecture, such as the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople.
-Dome and mosaics: The dome of the octagon is surrounded by magnificent Mosaics which depict scenes from Christian theology. They shimmer in gold and blue and amaze visitors.
-Gallery and column decorationThe columns in the cathedral originate in part from ancient Roman buildings and were brought to Aachen from Italy by Charlemagne.
The Gothic choir:
In the 14th century, the cathedral was extended by the Gothic choiralso as Glass house known, expanded. It impresses with:
-High glass windowsThe windows extend over 27 meters and fill the choir room with a light-flooded atmosphere.
-ReliquaryThe magnificent Charlemagne Shrine houses the remains of Charlemagne.
The cathedral treasury - precious works of art and relics
The Aachen Cathedral Treasure is one of the most important ecclesiastical treasuries in Europe. It contains valuable medieval works of art, relics and liturgical objects.
Highlights of the cathedral treasury:
-Charles ShrineThe golden shrine from the 13th century preserves the mortal remains of Charlemagne.
-Shrine of the Virgin MaryAnother elaborately designed shrine containing important relics such as the dress of Mary and the loincloth of Christ.
-Lothar crossA magnificent presentation cross decorated with gold, precious stones and antique cameos.
-Bust reliquariesPrecious reliquaries in the form of heads, showing the artistic goldsmith's work of the Middle Ages.
Practical tips for visitors
-Opening hoursThe cathedral is open daily and guided tours are offered regularly.
-AdmissionVisit to the cathedral is free of charge, admission to the cathedral treasury is subject to a charge.
-Best time to travelAachen is worth a visit at any time of year, but the cathedral is particularly festive at Christmas time with the Aachen Christmas market.
