The Cross of Lothair contains an antique cameo of Roman Emperor Augustus, reused as a Christian religious object.
The collection features the Bust of Charlemagne, created around 1350 to house a skull relic of the emperor.
The Proserpina Sarcophagus was used to inter the body of Charlemagne following his death in 814.
Many items in the treasury were specifically commissioned by Ottonian emperors for use within the Aachen Palatine Chapel.
The treasury's holdings were historically used in the coronation rituals of 31 German kings between 936 and 1531.
It is considered the most important ecclesiastical treasury north of the Alps.
The Aachen Cathedral Treasury holds one of the most significant collections of medieval ecclesiastical art in Europe. Located adjacent to the Aachen Cathedral, this museum safeguards precious liturgical objects dating from the late antiquity to the Carolingian, Ottonian, and Hohenstaufen periods. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site component. The collection includes the Cross of Lothair, a masterpiece of medieval goldsmithing adorned with gems and a cameo of Emperor Augustus. Visitors can view the Proserpina Sarcophagus, a rare Roman marble relief piece from the 2nd century. The treasury houses the bust of Charlemagne, a reliquary containing a portion of the emperor's skull. It serves as the repository for liturgical vestments, illuminated manuscripts, and ivory carvings once used in the coronation ceremonies of German kings.
The Bust of Charlemagne, located in the central hall, offers the most iconic visual.
Visit the cathedral itself first to understand the context of the items currently displayed in the treasury.
The museum is compact; combine your visit with a walking tour of the historic Aachen old town.
Check the official website for special temporary exhibitions, which often rotate rare items from the archives.
Do not mistake the Treasury entrance for the main Cathedral entrance; they are separate buildings.
Closed on certain public holidays and occasionally for private religious events.
Maintain a quiet tone; photography is permitted without flash.
