What is the Aachen Cathedral?
In German, it is called Kaiserdom, which means Imperial Cathedral. The Roman Catholic Aachen Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe, located in the city of Aachen, and constructed by order of Emperor Charlemagne. The cathedral is the first site in Germany that classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What is Aachen famous for?
Aachen Cathedral. It is claimed as one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe and was constructed by order of the emperor Charlemagne, who was buried there after his death in 814. For 595 years, from 936 to 1531, the Palatine Chapel, heart of the cathedral, was the church of coronation for thirty-one German kings and twelve queens.
What is the Aachen pilgrimage?
The Aachen pilgrimage ( Aachener Heiligtumsfahrt ), a pilgrimage during which the four most important religious relics of the cathedral can be seen by believers, is attested from 1238. Since 1349, these relics have been displayed once every seven years.
Where can I tour the Treasury of Aachen Cathedral?
Tickets for guided tours of the treasury and entrance tickets to the cathedral treasury are available at the Dominformation opposite the main entrance to Aachen Cathedral. As is so often the case when it comes to special buildings, the construction of Aachen Cathedral is shrouded in legend…
What is the Palatine Chapel in Aachen?
For 595 years, from 936 to 1531, the Palatine Chapel, heart of the cathedral, was the church of coronation for thirty-one German kings and twelve queens. The church has been the mother church of the Diocese of Aachen since 1802.
Why did Charlemagne build Aachen Cathedral?
Charlemagne – the emperor who united much of Western Europe and built the foundations for Germany and France – constructed Aachen Cathedral as his own palace chapel. He wanted it to be extravagant enough for both a man of his stature but also for the city he had chosen as his imperial capital.