Aachen Cathedral in Germany

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Aachener Dom (Deutsche UNESCO-Kommission - German only)
Aachen Cathedral (in German)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1978
Size of heritage: 0.20 ha
- Buffer zone: 67 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 6,084°
Latitude: 50,774°

Summary

Construction of this palatine chapel, with its octagonal basilica and cupola, began c. 790–800 under the Emperor Charlemagne. Originally inspired by the churches of the Eastern part of the Holy Roman Empire, it was splendidly enlarged in the Middle Ages.

Location on Map

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Aachen Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany

Aachen Cathedral, located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany, is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1978. This historic cathedral holds immense cultural and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and a place of worship for many.

History

The construction of Aachen Cathedral began in the late 8th century under the rule of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor. Charlemagne desired to create a grand place of worship that would rival the great churches of Rome. The cathedral was completed in 805 AD and became the coronation site for German kings for over 600 years.

The architectural style of Aachen Cathedral is a unique blend of Carolingian, Gothic, and Byzantine influences. The Palatine Chapel, the oldest part of the cathedral, showcases the Carolingian style with its octagonal shape and intricate decorations. The Gothic choir, added in the 14th century, complements the original structure, creating a harmonious fusion of architectural styles.

Current State

Today, Aachen Cathedral stands as a symbol of European history and unity. Its stunning architecture and rich history attract visitors from all over the world. The cathedral underwent extensive restoration in the 19th and 20th centuries to preserve its original beauty and ensure its longevity.

One of the most remarkable features of Aachen Cathedral is the Palatine Chapel. Its interior is adorned with stunning mosaics, depicting biblical scenes and figures. The golden mosaics, created in the Byzantine style, are a testament to the wealth and power of Charlemagne's empire.

The cathedral also houses the Shrine of Charlemagne, which contains his remains. This shrine is a pilgrimage site for many, and visitors can pay their respects to one of Europe's most influential historical figures.

Another notable feature of Aachen Cathedral is the Treasury, which houses a vast collection of religious artifacts and relics. Visitors can marvel at the intricately crafted gold and silver objects, including the famous Bust of Charlemagne.

Aachen Cathedral continues to serve as a place of worship, hosting regular religious services and ceremonies. Its significance as a religious and cultural landmark is further enhanced by the fact that it was the first German site to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Friedland Strasse 6-8
52064 AACHEN
Germany

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Aachen | Stadt | Sehenswürdigkeiten | Rhein-Eifel.TV

Published: July 18, 2013
Length: 53:15 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: Rhein-Eifel.TV

http://www.rhein-eifel.tv/aachen.htm - Aachen - Sehenswürdigkeiten, Geschichte, Citytour. Am Nordrand der Eifel, im Grenzgebiet zu den Niederlanden und Belgien liegt Aachen, das offiziell...

Paintballpark Aachen 2013

Published: March 27, 2013
Length: 54:26 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Paintballpark Aachen

Paintballpark Aachen Saison 2013.

Frei.Wild - FdF ReTour-Tagebuch - Tag 1 - Aachen

Published: April 13, 2013
Length: 07:21 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Frei.Wild

Am 11.04.2013 gastierten wir im Aachener Royal Event Center: Hier unsere visuellen Eindrücke nicht aus der ersten Reihe, sondern mittendrin dabei!

Paintballpark Aachen Saison 2013

Published: March 26, 2013
Length: 10:13 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Paintballpark Aachen

Paintballpark Aachen Saison 2013.

Aachen Dom: Glocken der Katholischen Kirche (Plenum)

Published: November 25, 2013
Length: 29:46 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: DennisWubs

Aachen Dom: Glocken der Katholischen Kirche (Plenum) http://www.youtube.com/denniswubs https://www.facebook.com/dennis.wubs http://www.panoramio.com/user/414509 Aken (D): Katholieke ...