Speyer Cathedral – Speyer : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
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- 8 Jul, 2023
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Welcome to this unique blog introducing you to one of Germany’s most important historical sites, the Speyer Cathedral! Situated near the Rhine river in the city of Speyer, the cathedral is one of the oldest Romanesque-style churches in Europe, renowned for its architecture and art. We will explore the incredible history of the building and answer some questions you may have about it. We will also introduce you to a few of the interesting facts and cultural significance attached to Speyer’s majestic church before giving you an in-depth travel guide to help you plan your visit. So if you’re ready to discover Speyer Cathedral, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Speyer Cathedral – Speyer
Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in the world that is still being used as a church today. It was built between 1030 and 1061 and is one of the most iconic buildings in Germany. – The westwork façade of the cathedral, which is the most recognizable part, was built in the 12th century in the style of Romanesque architecture. – The cathedral was damaged twice during World War II, first by Allied bombing in 1945 and then during the Siege of Speyer in 1945 by Soviet forces. – The tombs of eight German emperors and kings can be found in Speyer Cathedral, including the tomb of St. Henry II and the tombs of all the Salian emperors from Conrad II to Henry IV. – There is also a museum in Speyer Cathedral which holds a variety of artifacts related to the history of the cathedral and its art. – The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known as “the balance of the temple.” It has been seen as an important example of how Romanesque churches can be used to this day.
History & Information About Speyer Cathedral – Speyer
Cathedral
Speyer Cathedral (Kaiserdom) is a large Romanesque cathedral in Speyer, Germany, that has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1981. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Mary, the Virgin Mary, and St. Stephen.
Built mainly in the late 11th and early 12th centuries, the cathedral is one of the largest surviving Romanesque buildings in Europe. It is considered a classic example of the Salian-Imperial style, which spread through Europe after the coronation of Henry IV in 1084. The cathedral was the burial site of dozens of 10th and 11th century German emperors and kings, as well as an important pilgrimage site for Roman Catholics since the Middle Ages.
The cathedral of Speyer was the first cathedral in Germany to be built in the Romanesque style. It was constructed in the tradition of the Salian-Imperial style, which was popularized by the coronation of Emperor Henry IV in 1084. The cathedral features sculptures of Romanesque artwork, as well as priceless stained glass windows, that illustrate the bible’s narrative. The interior of the cathedral is marked by its 108 m long nave and 5 apses, as well as a notable crypt. The crypt is home to the tombs of eight German emperors and kings, including Frederick I Barbarossa and Henry VI, and contains a magnificent shrine of St. Mahday.
Today, Speyer Cathedral is one of Germany’s premier tourist attractions, and over 1.5 million visitors come to see the cathedral each year. The Cathedral is a major part of the city of Speyer, with its distinctive silhouette, and is visible from far away. The cathedral is open daily from April until September and visiting hours are from 9am to 6pm. Visitors are welcome to tour the crypt and the Romanesque art, as well as view the nearby Bishop’s Palace.
Travel Guide For Visiting Speyer Cathedral – Speyer
, Germany
Speyer Cathedral or the Cathedral of St. Mary (German: Dom zu Speyer) is an imposing Roman Catholic edifice located in the town of Speyer in the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany. This iconic Gothic cathedral stands on the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the old town of Speyer and is known for its magnificence and historical importance.
Getting There:
Speyer Cathedral is located to the south of the old town of Speyer, on the riverside of the Rhine. It is easily accessible by both car and public transport.
The closest major airport to Speyer is Karlsruhe Baden-Baden Airport (FKB), about 48 km away. You can also fly into Frankfurt International Airport (FRA), just over 90 km away. From either location, you can easily get a train, renter car or bus to the city of Speyer.
Hours:
Speyer Cathedral is open to visitors for free from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. Guided tours are available from April to October for a fee of €5.
Things to See:
The highlights of Speyer Cathedral include the majestic stained glass windows, created in 1220, and the grand west facade, with its massive bronze door, which is thought to have been made in 1090. Inside, you can also explore the tombs of eight German emperors and kings, as well as the crypts of 23 Archbishops and 3 Imperial Princes. The cathedral also houses the elaborate Baroque baptismal font and the Chapel of the Virgin Mary, located at the west end of the nave.
Nearby Attractions:
The old town of Speyer is packed with attractions, including the Imperial Cathedral of Speyer, the Speyer Technical Museum and the Historic Altpörtel Gate. There’s also the Church of St. George, the Jewish Cemetery and the Old Synagogue, as well as the St. Michaels Church and the Speyer Wine Cellars. Other notable attractions in the vicinity include Auerbach Castle, Irish Castle, and Frankenstein Castle, all located a short drive away.
Shopping:
Visitors can find a number of souvenir shops around the cathedral, offering items such as postcards, souvenirs, and other German delicacies. There are also stores selling traditional items like antique clocks, furniture, and stoneware.
Restaurants:
The old town of Speyer is filled with restaurants, bistros and pubs, serving a variety of local and international dishes. For a traditional taste, you can try the Weingut-Restaurant Heideschlösschen. For seafood, head to the Restaurant Strandbad or Restaurant Lamm. For regional dishes, the Zum alten Stadtamt is a great place to stop.
Frequently Asked Questions About Speyer Cathedral – Speyer
Cathedral
Q: What is Speyer Cathedral?
A: Speyer Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of St. Mary) is a Romanesque Catholic cathedral in Speyer, Germany, and the burial site of eight German emperors and kings. Completed in 1061, it is one of the most important Gothic architecture monuments in Europe and one of the oldest cathedrals in the world.
Q: How big is Speyer Cathedral?
A: Speyer Cathedral is the largest Romanesque church in Europe. It has a length of 108.5 m (356 ft), a width of 54 m (177 ft) and a height of 45 m (148 ft).
Q: What is the history of Speyer Cathedral?
A: Speyer Cathedral was built in 1030 by Salian Emperor Konrad II and was completed in 1061. It was the centre of the imperial and spiritual life of the Holy Roman Empire for centuries. In 1981, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Q: What events take place at Speyer Cathedral?
A: Each year, over 2 million visitors come to visit Speyer Cathedral and it is the venue for special events such as music concerts, art exhibitions, theatre performances and more.