Aachen Cathedral
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Trip to Aachen Cathedral in Germany
HelenaHelena
260
It is Emperor Charlemagne´s own Palatine Chapel, which constitutes the nucleus of the Cathedral of Aachen, located in western Germany. The construction of the chapel between 793 and 813 symbolises the unification of the West and its spiritual and political revival under the aegis of Charlemagne. Originally inspired by the churches of the eastern part of the Holy Roman Empire, the octagonal core was splendidly enlarged in the Middle Ages. In 814, Charlemagne was buried here. Charlemagne made the Frankish royal estate of Aachen, which had been serving a spa ever since the first century, his favourite abode. The main buildings of the Imperial Palace area were the Coronation Hall (aula regia – located in today´s Town Hall) and the Palace Chapel – now Aachen Cathedral. The Palatine Chapel is based on an octagonal ground plan, which is surrounded by an aisle and by tribunes above, and roofed with a dome. Facing the altar, the Emperor sat on the gallery; the Carolingian stone throne was the coronation seat of the kings of the Holy Roman Empire of German Nation from the Middle Ages until 1531. The chapel itself is easily recognizable from later additions by its distinctive structure. An atrium on the western side and a portico led to the imperial apartments. The Gothic choir and a series of chapels that were added throughout the Middle Ages created the composite array of features that characterised the cathedral. The interior is punctuated on the lower storey by round arches set upon eight ample pillars, and on the upper storey by a gallery with eight Carolingian bronze gates. The high dome gathers light from eight open-arched windows above the drum; it was originally entirely covered with a large mosaic depicting Christ Enthroned, in purple robes and surrounded by the Elders of the Apocalypse. The present-day mosaic dates back to 1880/1881. The interior of the chapel is embellished by antique columns that Charlemagne probably ordered to be brought from Rome and Ravenna. Despite the subsequent additions, the Palatine Chapel constitutes a homogeneous nucleus. The Cathedral Treasury in Aachen is regarded as one of the most important ecclesiastical treasuries in northern Europe; the most prominent inventory items are the cross of Lothar (about 1000 AD), made from gold and inlaid with precious stones, the dark-blue velvet chasuble with embroidered pearls, a reliquary-bust of Charlemagne made from silver and gold, and a marble sarcophagus decorated with a relief of the Abduction of Proserpine, which once contained the body of Charlemagne. (Source: UNESCO)
Annarella d’AcquaAnnarella d’Acqua
00
Aachen Cathedral is a medieval church steeped in a thousand years of history and a classic example of Carolingian architecture. It was once one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Christians during the Middle Ages and served as the final resting place of Charlemagne, as well as the coronation site for Holy Roman Emperors. These factors contributed to its recognition as the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany. The cathedral is also renowned for housing four sacred relics from Jerusalem. During the Middle Ages, it became the fourth major Christian pilgrimage site after Jerusalem, Rome, and Santiago de Compostela. The four relics include the robe of the Virgin Mary from the birth of Jesus, the swaddling clothes of Jesus, the belt worn by Jesus during the crucifixion, and the garments of John the Baptist at the time of his beheading. Since 1349, every seven years, the cathedral has hosted a major pilgrimage event where these relics, stored in the Marienschrein (Mary's Shrine), are taken out and displayed for pilgrims from around the world. Aachen Cathedral stands out among other famous cathedrals with its unique grandeur. Upon entering the town, it’s impossible not to be drawn to this monumental structure. Despite the small town's simplicity, the cathedral seems overwhelmingly large in comparison. Additionally, due to multiple expansions and renovations over the centuries, it blends various architectural styles, making its overall appearance particularly unique—almost like a structure pieced together from building blocks. What makes Aachen Cathedral even more special is that it is the oldest cathedral I’ve visited. While the exterior shows signs of renovation, the interior, particularly the Palatine Chapel, truly showcases ancient splendor. Its structure, use of color, mosaics, and golden dome present a style that is rare to see in other European churches.
Chi-Ming Chen (Ming)Chi-Ming Chen (Ming)
00
My visit to Aachen Cathedral in 2014 was a fascinating journey into the heart of history and art. The cathedral's rich architectural heritage and religious significance left a lasting impression, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and culture lovers. The intricate design and craftsmanship of the cathedral's interior were awe-inspiring. The golden mosaics and beautifully adorned chapels showcased the skill of the artisans who created this magnificent place of worship. The Palatine Chapel, in particular, stood out with its unique octagonal shape and exquisite detailing. The historical importance of Aachen Cathedral as the coronation site of numerous German kings added to its allure. Standing in the same space where centuries of royal history unfolded was a humbling experience that transported me back in time. The cathedral's surroundings, including the charming Old Town and the nearby Elisenbrunnen, provided an excellent backdrop for exploring the city's cultural offerings. However, the experience could have been enhanced with more detailed information provided at various points within the cathedral. While the architecture spoke volumes, additional signage or guided tours would have provided deeper insights into its historical and religious significance. Overall, Aachen Cathedral is a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality that should not be missed. Despite the minor lack of information, the beauty and cultural value of this UNESCO World Heritage Site make it a compelling destination for anyone with an appreciation for the past and the wonders of architectural excellence.
Sayak DasSayak Das
40
Over 1200 years old this Cathedral contains history of Charlemagne and the Middle Ages. The architecture is fascinating and the artwork is incredibly beautiful and meaningful. This is a church and is used today for Catholic masses. The golden reliquaries are beautiful and contain the bones of Charlemagne and the diaper and loincloth of Jesus. Look high to see the ceiling with all of its splendor and look low to see an amazingly laid out floor. Free to the public. No tickets for entrance is necessary. Restrooms are just next door and cost .50 Euro and are clean. Visit the Dom Information center to join a tour for a small fee. I highly recommend the tour. Get your tour ticket as soon as you arrive to get the time and language preferred. You get to see the throne, go upstairs, and go behind the altar. Our guide was an architectural student and provided lots of historical insight. Be sure to visit the gift shop. They have an amazing and wide variety of different religious, historical, and regional items. The staff is very helpful and welcoming. Walk to the Cathedral from Aachen HBF or take a bus to the Elisenbrunnen stop. You can easily buy tickets from the bus drivers. The entire area around the Cathedral is worth a visit.
Jeffrey ScottJeffrey Scott
00
This Cathedral is incredible. It is breathtaking and full of incredible history and beautiful design. It is absolutely worth a visit and is easily accessible by public transit or by foot from the train station. Trains come hourly from the hubs in NRW. The low rating is because the staff was incredibly unkind. When I was speaking German (for example when I dropped my donation) the woman at the entrance was very kind and welcoming. However, later when my parents asked in English to be let through a barrier (that the same woman had smiled and lifted for 10+ people before us), the woman was incredibly rude, rolled her eyes and told us to go back to the beginning and around. Because I could understand her interactions with the German visitors, I know that there was no problem to go through the barrier to reach the exit sooner, she even offered the shortcut to people walking by, but when asked in English, it suddenly became a massive inconvenience and not possible. Which meant my elderly and handicapped parents had to go all the way back around. It's a gorgeous place and everyone should visit if possible, but be aware that the staff are not equally kind and welcoming to everyone.
BreannBreann
20
Nearby Attractions Of Aachen Cathedral
Aquis Plaza
Elisenbrunnen
GALERIA Aachen
Mayersche Aachen
Ponttor
ElisenGalerie
Katschhof
City Hall Aachen
Centre Charlemagne
Aachen Cathedral Treasury

Aquis Plaza
4.2
(7.1K)Click for details

Elisenbrunnen
4.3
(3.9K)Click for details

GALERIA Aachen
4.1
(3.1K)Click for details

Mayersche Aachen
4.6
(2.5K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Aachen Cathedral
Cafe Extrablatt Aachen
Domkeller
Aachener Brauhaus
60 seconds to napoli aachen
Restaurant Elisenbrunnen
Tijuana Aachen
Zen Zen
Hanswurst - Das Wurstrestaurant
Living im Magellan
Mensa Academica

Cafe Extrablatt Aachen
4.2
(1.6K)Click for details

Domkeller
4.5
(1.3K)Click for details

Aachener Brauhaus
4.4
(1.3K)Click for details

60 seconds to napoli aachen
4.6
(1.2K)Click for details
Basic Info
Address
Domhof 1, 52062 Aachen, Germany
Map
Phone
+49 241 477090
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Website
aachenerdom.de
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Reviews
Overview
4.7
(6.6K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
accessibility
Description
Aachen Cathedral is a Catholic church in Aachen, Germany and the seat of the Diocese of Aachen. One of the oldest cathedrals in Europe, it was constructed by order of Emperor Charlemagne, who was buried there in 814. From 936 to 1531, the Palatine Chapel saw the coronation of thirty-one German kings and twelve queens.
attractions: Aquis Plaza, Elisenbrunnen, GALERIA Aachen, Mayersche Aachen, Ponttor, ElisenGalerie, Katschhof, City Hall Aachen, Centre Charlemagne, Aachen Cathedral Treasury, restaurants: Cafe Extrablatt Aachen, Domkeller, Aachener Brauhaus, 60 seconds to napoli aachen, Restaurant Elisenbrunnen, Tijuana Aachen, Zen Zen, Hanswurst - Das Wurstrestaurant, Living im Magellan, Mensa Academica

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