Charlemagne’s remains are housed within a gold-plated reliquary known as the Karlsschrein.
The cathedral’s bronze doors, cast in the 9th century, were the largest of their kind north of the Alps at the time.
The Gothic choir, often called the 'Glass House of Aachen,' was added in the 14th century to accommodate increasing numbers of pilgrims.
The structure survived Allied bombing raids during WWII, though much of its stained glass was removed for protection.
Otto III, the Holy Roman Emperor, was entombed here in the year 1002.
The cathedral is the final resting place of Charles the Great, who died in 814.
Its octagonal dome served as a model for numerous European palace chapels, including those in Prague and Ottmarsheim.
The cathedral floor is paved with original marble slabs imported from Mediterranean regions during the Carolingian era.
Aachen Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in northern Europe, originally commissioned by Charlemagne around 796 AD as his Palatine Chapel. The core of the building features an octagonal dome modeled after the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna. It served as the coronation site for German kings from 936 to 1531, witnessing the crowning of over 30 monarchs. The structure showcases a blend of Carolingian, Ottonian, and Gothic architecture. The Palatine Chapel houses the marble throne used by Charlemagne during his reign. In 1978, it became the first site in Germany to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The cathedral also preserves a significant collection of medieval relics, including the robes of the Virgin Mary and the loincloth of Christ. The Treasury, or Domschatzkammer, contains one of the most important ecclesiastical collections in Europe.
The central octagonal gallery, looking up toward the golden mosaics of the dome.
Visit the Treasury separately to view the extensive collection of medieval gold work and ivory carvings.
Request an English-language guided tour if you wish to access the upper gallery where the marble throne is located.
Look for the 'wolf's door' bronze handle on the main entrance, which is associated with a local legend involving the devil.
Do not attempt to photograph the interior using a flash, as it is strictly prohibited to protect the historic artworks.
The cathedral occasionally closes partially for church services or private religious events; the Treasury is typically closed on certain holidays.
Maintain silence inside; remove headwear; modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) is required as it is an active place of worship.
