The Frankfurt Cathedral, also known as the Imperial Cathedral of Saint Bartholomew (Kaiserdom Sankt Bartholomäus), is a significant landmark in Frankfurt, Germany. As one of the major historical buildings in the city it holds great cultural and architectural significance and is simply magnificent to behold.
History
Located in the heart of Frankfurt’s old town (Altstadt) on Domplatz, near the Römerberg Square, the construction of the Cathedral dates back to the 14th Century. It was originally built as a collegiate church and was the site where German emperors were crowned and imperial elections took place. Over the centuries, the Cathedral has undergone various renovations, alterations, and additions, resulting in a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.
During World War II, the Cathedral, along with the city underwent six bombardments of the Allied Air Forces. These devastate the city and much of the timber based old town was destroyed in the bombings and subsequent fires. St. Bartholomew’s was severely damaged with the interior completely burnt out.
Architecture
Although the building that we see today is a reconstruction from the 1950’s, Frankfurt’s Cathedral exhibits a striking Gothic architectural style with its towering spire, pointed arches, and intricate details. The cathedral’s exterior features ornate decorations, sculptures, and beautiful stained glass windows which can be made out from across the city.
Inside, the vaulted ceilings are another striking feature. Indeed, the original ceilings made a striking backdrop for the coronation of Archduke Joseph as King of the Romans in 1764.
Interior
Inside, the grand nave, chapels, and the stunning high altar are a reminder of the building’s purpose.
The cathedral also houses notable artworks, sculptures, and historical artifacts and includes a museum. The Dommuseum showcases ecclesiastical treasury art, a rich collection of Medieval and Baroque Eucharistic vestments and important exhibits relating to the imperial cathedral.
The collection ranges in age from early Medieval archaeological finds to evidence of the early 19th century redesign. However, one of the most important exhibits is much, much older. The grave of two children who were buried here around 700 AD was unearthed in 1991 during excavations in the cathedral. The funerary objects that were found include delicate gold jewelry, glass and clay vessels, small toys, everyday objects and amulets.
The Gothic-style choir and the Schwanthaler Memorial, a monument dedicated to the German poet Friedrich Schiller, are also worth seeing.
The Spire
A certain highlight of the Frankfurt Cathedral is its spire, which stands at approximately 95 meters tall. I climb the hundreds of winding steps to the top of the spire. I emerge, breathless, from the cool interior and am suddenly out on the ledge at the top. The view that confronts me leaves me even more breathless. The panoramic views of the city skyline and the Main river are simply stunning.
Good To Know
A visit to the Frankfurt Cathedral allows me to explore a significant piece of Frankfurt’s history. At the same time I am able to admire the impressive collection of architecture and artworks. This is a must visit destination whilst exploring the city. It would be amiss to underestimate the cultural and historical significance of this landmark. Other landmarks include: Romerberg, the Stadel Museum, Strewwelpeter Museum and Goethe House. The nearby Schirn Kunsthalle a modern space for contemporary art exhibitions.
Would I Return?
Yes.
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