Find relics, religious history and an array of art within Brunswick Cathedral. The stately church, which is called a Dom in German, was consecrated in 1226. Today, it is used by a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran State Church of Brunswick. Find the cathedral on the edge of Castle Square in Braunschweig.
You can’t miss the Imervard cross. The massive wooden sculpture of a crucified Jesus Christ is the most important piece of art in the cathedral. It was likely created around 1150, before the cathedral itself was consecrated. The Imevard cross is actually a large relic the head is hollow and once housed 30 smaller relics.
By the steps leading to the presbytery, find the Altar of Our Lady, which was commissioned by Henry the Lion. Today, the altar is home to the treasures from Henry the Lion's pilgrimage to Byzantium and Jerusalem in 1172. Behind it there is a huge bronze seven-armed candelabrum.
Admire the ornate frescoes, which date back to the mid-13th century, covering Brunswick Cathedral’s walls and ceiling. When they were discovered in 1845, they were unfortunately painted over. However, recent restoration efforts have nearly returned them to their former glory.
Visit the tomb of Henry the Lion, the Duke of Saxony, and his wife, Matilda of England. His many exiles disrupted the cathedral’s construction, so they were actually buried there before it was completed. In the mausoleum, see how Henry is represented as a young ruler, carrying a model of Brunswick Cathedral in his right hand. The cathedral is also the final resting place of notables including Otto IV, Holy Roman Emperor, and Caroline of Brunswick, Queen of the United Kingdom.
To fully immerse yourself in Brunswick Cathedral, join a guided tour. Walk through the cathedral, led by a knowledgeable docent, and learn all about its history. Tours are offered regularly throughout the week, in addition to personalized tours and tours on special topics. Note that there are no tours during services and other official events.
Visit Brunswick Cathedral throughout the year, Monday through Friday. Note that there is a fee to enter the crypt.