When in 1978 the UNESCO published the World Heritage Site list for the very first time there was only on entry from Germany: the Kaiserdom zu Aachen. It was created by the order of emperor Charlemagne from 795 on and it was part of his Kaiserpfalz at Aachen. Emperors by that time were continuously travelling and had different palaces in their territory. The most favorite palace of Charlemagne was at Aachen and you can still see that in the beauty of this cathedral.
Different history styles can be found throughout this place (which also was named Marienkirche in the past) but the most magnificent structure is the octagon in the center, referring to Byzantine architecture. It is surrounded by a passage with sixteen walls and behind the altar there is a vast and colorful glass window. The roof is decorated by mosaics and at the top an image of Jesus Christ and the symbols of the four evangelists. A wonderful building creating an amazing atmosphere.
Charlemagne, former Holy Roman Emperor was buried in the cathedral in 814, the most probably used Proserpina sarcophagus is on display at the Domschatzkammer (treasury). Because of that Aachen became the place for the coronation ceremonies of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation between 936 and 1531. Hard to image how important the city was once politically. Take your time to discover the many different details in the cathedral, like the very basic throne used for the ceremonies. Outside the cathedral you can discover an offshoot of the 1,000 years old rose from the Hildesheim cathedral.
Aachener Dom
Domhof 1
52062 Aachen
Germany
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