Bamberg Cathedral — Attraction in Bamberg

Monumental cathedral with a lot of history and importance!

Built in the 13th century - to the form as we see today - it's one of the most sacred buildings in Germany, and indeed from the outside the architecture is stunning distinguishing the cathedral by four majestic towers visible from most parts of the city. Even though the cathedral was under construction I was still able to admire its beauty, I especially appreciate the detailed Prince's portal on the side of the cathedral.

From the inside it was a bit let down. Yes, seeing the horseman, the most significant work of art in the cathedral, alongside the organs and the interior was great, but nothing mind blowing - judging strictly from the design perspective, not the cultural heritage. There are simply more beautiful cathedrals around Germany. From up close I was able to see The Tomb of the Saintly Imperial couple and the horsemen, unfortunately the cathedra, papal tomb (the only place north of Alps with buried pope) and the fresco of The Second Coming of Christ at the apse were fenced, therefore not able to admire from up close in details.

There is no organized tour inside nor you can go to one of its towers (let down for me as I like seeing places from above), but you can purchase a small brochure for 1 EUR to help you navigate through the place. Be aware that opening hours may vary due to masses (during my time of visit the cathedral was closed between 12:00 and 12:30). Free entry. Visited...

This is the impressive cathedral located at Domplatz that I very much enjoyed visiting during a recent day trip to Bamberg in December 2024. Originally built at the beginning of the 11th-century, what you see today mostly dates back the Romanesque and early Gothic style church constructed around the end of the 12th-century.

Opening times are 9am (Mon to Sat) and 1pm (Sun), closing around 6pm daily. Entry is free. Note there is also an adjacent Bamberg Diocesan Museum which presently must be entered through the church. Entry is €7 per adult.

In addition to the fine exterior architecture with its two towers, the inside of the Bamberg Cathedral is very impressive. You will find a traditional central nave, tall and narrow with high vaulted ceiling. Two side aisles, back choir and chapels all holding decorative treasures in the form of old artworks, sculptures, tombs representing Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque Revival periods.

Highlights include the marble tomb of Empress Kunigunde, which is considered a masterpiece by Tilman Riemenschneider (1499-1513) and the Bamberg Horseman which is believed to be the oldest Medieval equestrian statue in the Western World. It likely dates back to around 1225-1230.

It is a fine cathedral visit and one convenient to include if you plan to spend a bit of time at Domplatz while sightseeing...

The Bamberg Cathedral, completed in the 13th century, holds significant historical and cultural importance, earning its place in the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Town of Bamberg" since 1993. Officially known as Bamberg Cathedral of St. Peter and St. George, it is also referred to as the Kaiserdom or Imperial Cathedral. This cathedral houses the only papal grave in Germany after the destruction of Pope Benedict V's tomb in Hamburg in the early 19th century. Emperor Heinrich II and his wife Kunigunde are interred in a sepulcher near the entrance, while Pope Clement II is also buried here.

Visitors, like those depicted in the reviews, appreciate the cathedral's stunning architecture, intricate paintings, and notable historical figures entombed within. Despite its grandeur, some find the interior slightly underwhelming compared to other cathedrals in Germany, particularly in terms of design aesthetics. While access to certain areas like the cathedra, papal tomb, and frescoes may be restricted, guided tours are available, offering insights into the cathedral's rich history. Entry is free, making it a must-visit...