Magdeburg Cathedral
Sachsen-Anhalt
Magdeburg Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of Saints Maurice and Catherine, is a Lutheran cathedral located in Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. It stands as the oldest Gothic cathedral in the country and serves as the principal church of the Evangelical Church in Central Germany. Construction began in 1209 following the destruction of the original abbey church by fire in 1207, and the cathedral's iconic twin towers were completed in 1520. The cathedral features a unique Gothic architectural style influenced by French Gothic, with notable structural elements such as flying buttresses and a three-aisled basilica layout. Its south steeple reaches 99.25 meters, and the north tower stands at 100.98 meters, making it one of the tallest cathedrals in eastern Germany. The cathedral is famous for housing the tombs of Emperor Otto I the Great and his wife Edith, linking it deeply to the Holy Roman Empire's history. Despite suffering damage during World War II, it was restored and remains a landmark symbolizing Magdeburg’s cultural and religious heritage. The cathedral also holds a rich collection of art spanning from medieval to modern periods, reflecting its continuous religious and cultural significance.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit during spring or early fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Guided tours are available, including access to the viewing platform on the north tower, which requires climbing 433 steps. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for tower access. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Sunday services offer a unique experience, including a children's service during sermons. Check the official website for updated opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •Magdeburg Cathedral is the oldest Gothic cathedral in Germany and one of the tallest in eastern Germany.
- •The north tower is 100.98 meters tall and has a viewing platform accessible by 433 steps.
- •The cathedral houses the tomb of Emperor Otto I the Great and his wife Edith, linking it to the Holy Roman Empire’s early history.
- •The original abbey church was founded in 937 and was destroyed by fire in 1207 before the current Gothic cathedral was built.
- •The cathedral’s architecture uniquely combines Romanesque and Gothic elements, reflecting its long construction period over three centuries.
History
The original church on the site was founded in 937 as an abbey dedicated to Saint Maurice, financed by Emperor Otto I the Great.
After a devastating city fire in 1207, the old church was destroyed, prompting Archbishop Albert I of Käfernburg to commission a new Gothic cathedral inspired by French architecture, starting construction in 1209.
The cathedral was consecrated in 1363 and completed with its towers in 1520.
It served as the seat of the Prince-Archbishopric of Magdeburg and was a symbol of Otto I’s imperial power.
Despite damage from World War II air raids, the cathedral was restored and reopened in 1955, preserving its historical and cultural legacy.
Place Guide
North Tower Viewing Platform1520
The north tower stands at 100.98 meters tall and features an observation platform at 81.5 meters, reachable by climbing 433 steps. It offers panoramic views of Magdeburg and the surrounding region. The staircase narrows near the top, adding to the experience.
Choir and Nave1209-1363
The choir began construction in 1209 and showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with Romanesque groin vaults combined with Gothic elements. The nave is a three-aisled basilica with unique structural features such as flying buttresses without typical flying arches and a distinctive roof drainage system.
Crypt and Foundations of the Original Church937
Beneath the current cathedral lie the excavated foundations of the original 10th-century abbey church, including the crypt where Queen Edith was buried. These archaeological remains are accessible to the public and reveal the cathedral's deep historical roots.
Contact
Phone: 0391 5410436
