A lovely cathedral in the centre of Mainz close to the Guttenberg Museum, with a market often held close by. Of interest to British visitors is the fact that it was founded by Saint Boniface who lived from 675 to 754 and came from Crediton in Devon. There is a statue of St Boniface outside the Cathedral in typical religious robes, but a statue of a much more realistic interpretation of how he might have looked has recently been placed inside.
The reddish stone building itself is monumental, giving it a very solid appearance, almost as if it will last forever. Despite this it has suffered through the ages as a result of wars, fires and general neglect, however it has been well restored and much of its interior has been retained.
Although much of the interior decoration and statues has been removed over the years, much still remains, including many magnificent statues and sculpures of the over 40 archbishops buried in the Cathedral. There are 1000 year old bronze doors leading to the Market Place. The cloisters are well woth a visit, as is the museum which houses some of the older statues and stonework that has been saved.
It is also a very peaceful place, just to be...
Read moreVisiting Mainz Cathedral on a public holiday was a unique experience. While we arrived initially for sightseeing, there was a mass in progress. The staff politely asked us to wait, and the atmosphere outside was incredibly calm. We enjoyed the unexpected pause, soaking in the sunshine and the reverence in the air.
Once the mass concluded, we entered the cathedral. The interior is truly awe-inspiring. Towering ceilings, magnificent stained glass windows bathed the space in colorful light, and intricate details held our attention around every corner. It was a feast for the eyes!
Beyond the visual beauty, the cathedral offered a sense of peace and tranquility. This was especially noticeable after the quiet wait outside. There's a real sense of history within these walls, and informative plaques throughout offered fascinating details about the architecture, artwork, and religious significance of the cathedral.
Overall, visiting Mainz Cathedral on a public holiday turned out to be a delightful experience. We got a glimpse into the spiritual life of the city and were rewarded with a stunning and informative exploration of this...
Read moreMainz Cathedral is truly a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and a place where you instantly feel the weight of history—and the serenity of the present.
From the moment you approach its striking red sandstone façade and soaring towers, the cathedral commands attention. Yet, once inside, what stands out most is the calm and quiet atmosphere. The interior, with its high vaulted ceilings, delicate stained-glass windows, and softly lit chapels, invites reflection and stillness.
Each corner offers something unique: from colorful modern stained-glass windows to beautifully preserved medieval sculptures and ornate altars. The cathedral is not only a feast for the eyes but also a deeply spiritual space, whether you’re religious or not. Sitting in the long nave, surrounded by centuries-old stone and gentle candlelight, brings a sense of grounding and peace.
A small exhibit area shares more about the cathedral’s long and storied past, and there are plenty of nooks to explore if you enjoy architecture, art, or quiet contemplation.
Right in the heart of Mainz, this is a must-visit spot that feels worlds away from the busy streets...
Read more