Bamberg Cathedral
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Bamberg Cathedral - by Berthold Werner in the Public Domain
Description
Bamberg Cathedral is a 13th century Roman Catholic Church in the UNESCO listed town of Bamberg in northern Bavaria, Germany. The original church was founded in 1002 by Emperor Heinrich II and it contained his remains, his spouse's (Empress Cunigunde) as well as that of Pope Clement II, making it the only papal grave in the country. The Romanesque design (with some later Gothic influence) is notable for its length (94m) and its four towers, each about 80m high. Key features include the marble tombs, a 13th century equestrian statue (known as the Bamberg Horseman), the eastern and western choirs, the ornate portals and other stone carvings. The cathedral square (Domplatz) fronted by Renaissance and Baroque building is also noteworthy.
Access & Transport
The Cathedral is up a hill, on the western edge of the old town, about 2km from the train station. There are direct train services (ICE and regional) to Nuremberg (35-40mins) and to Würzburg (~1h). By car, it takes 1h (60km) from Nuremberg on the A73 and 1h30 (105km) from Würzburg on the A3. There are several parking options on the edge of the old town neighbourhood.
Instructions & Recommendations
Note that visits are not permitted during religious services.
Environmental & Social
The running environmental footprint is low and it helps maintain the city's architectural heritage
Conclusion
Bamberg Cathedral is genuinely striking, partly because of its hilltop setting and is worth a visit for anybody going through town. However, it lacks a little in artwork for such an important church - which is compensated by its long history. On its own, it may not warrant a special trip but the rest of town also makes for an enjoyable visit so it is worth including in a culturally themed regional itinerary.
Key positive
A thousand year of history
Visually very impressive profile and great views over town
Key negative
Lack of outstanding features inside
Suitability
No religious denomination restriction. Accessible
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:1h 15m
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY09:00 - 18:00
TUESDAY09:00 - 18:00
WEDNESDAY09:00 - 18:00
THURSDAY09:30 - 18:00
FRIDAY09:30 - 18:00
SATURDAY13:00 - 16:30
SUNDAY13:00 - 18:00
Start of Season 2:Nov, 01
MONDAY09:00 - 17:00
TUESDAY09:00 - 17:00
WEDNESDAY09:00 - 17:00
THURSDAY09:30 - 17:00
FRIDAY09:30 - 17:00
SATURDAY09:00 - 16:30
SUNDAY13:00 - 17:00