Charlemagne selected Aachen as the site for his vast Frankish empire and built the “octagon” (or the core) of his Imperial Cathedral in this area. Although the majority of the palace is not in existence today, this amazing chapel still stands. Not only was Charlemagne crowned as the Holy Roman Emperor in 800 AD within these chapel walls, but all the Holy Roman Emperors from 936 to 1531 were also crowned here as well. Pretty heady stuff :).
The original cathedral included the octagon (see below), but subsequent rulers added the spires and other parts of the cathedral. The cathedral is a mixture of architectural styles, including Gothic, Carolingian, and Baroque.
Although the treasury holds some of the greatest ecclesiastical treasures north of the Alps, unfortunately, the museum’s closure on Sunday will require a return visit. The cathedral itself contains not only the front altar table, covered in gold sheets (c. 1020), but also the Shrine of Charlemagne. Emperor Charlemagne was canonized as a saint in 1165 and shortly after that (early 13th century), a golden shrine was made to keep his bones in. It is on display towards the back of the picture below.
The ambo, or pulpit, is also made from gold-plated copper and inlaid with precious stones and ivories (c. 1014).
The copper candelabra, a gift from Emperor Friedrich I Barbarossa, hangs above the main congregational area.
Charlemagne’s throne is also available for viewing but an appointment must be made at the Treasury in advance (again, another reason to go back). Below, a photo from the back of the church. Buddy is seated in the lower left had corner and appears to be taking it all in.
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