SPEYER CATHEDRAL & CRYPT
The imperial Cathedral of Speyer, the foundation of which is in the form of a Latin cross, is one of the largest and most significant Romanesque edifices in Germany.
Don't miss this shocking destination, when staying in the Heidelberg hotel Hirschgasse, dating back to 1472.
It was built by the emperors and designated as their last resting place, as a symbol of their power. Construction began around 1030 under the Salic Emperor, “Konrad II” and it was consecrated in 1061. Renovations and extensions were undertaken at the hand of, “Heinrich IV”. The cathedral of Speyer is the first known structure to be built with a gallery that goes around the whole building. The system of blinding bows, were added during these renovations and was also a first in architectural history.
The town fire of 1689 destroyed a large part of the centre but in 1758 restorations were started and by 1778 it was fully restored to its original state. The Bavarian King, “Ludwig I”, commissioned the painting of the interior. From 1846-53 painters of the school of, “Johannes Schraudolph” and “Josef Schwarzmann”, completed the work in late Nazarene style. From 1854-58 the west-facing front section of the cathedral was rebuilt by, “Heinrich Hübsch” in new Romanesque style. During restoration in the 1950s, most of the19th century painting was removed thus revealing the impressive architecture.
In 1980, the cathedral was added to the UNESCO World Heritage program. The imperial Cathedral of, “St. Mary” and “St. Steven” is the seat of Speyer′s diocese and a papal basilica.
The crypt is of special interest, as it has retained its original condition to this present day. Being the official church of the Salic Emperors, eight German Emperors and Kings, four queens and a number of bishops, it only makes sense for this to be their final resting place.
Contact: „Music at the cathedral": Tel.: +49 62 32 102132, Fax: 10 21 35
Address
Domplatz
7346 Speyer
Phone: +49 6232 102 118
