Schleswig Cathedral
Schleswig-Holstein
Schleswig Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of St. Peter at Schleswig, is a prominent religious and architectural monument in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Founded originally after the establishment of the Schleswig diocese in 947, the current cathedral's construction began in 1134 as a Romanesque basilica and evolved over centuries into a late Gothic hall church. It features a blend of granite, tuff, sandstone, and brick materials. The cathedral is renowned for its impressive Gothic western tower, completed in 1894, which rises 112 meters and offers panoramic views from a 65-meter-high observation platform. Inside, visitors can admire notable artworks such as the Gothic Altar of the Magi, a bronze baptismal font by Ghert Klinghe from 1480, and the famous Bordesholm Altar. The cathedral also holds historical significance as the burial site of King Frederick I of Denmark and as a former seat of the Bishop of Schleswig. Its architectural features include the romanesque Petri Portal with detailed tympanum sculptures, the sacristy turned ducal tomb, and the Schwahl cloisters adorned with medieval frescoes. Today, it serves as the seat of the Lutheran Bishop of Schleswig and Holstein and remains a vital center for religious and cultural life in the region.
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Consejo: Visitors are advised to climb the Gothic western tower's observation platform for spectacular views of Schleswig, the Schlei, and Holm village. The cathedral is open daily, and guided tours, including special bell tower tours, are available. To avoid queues, purchasing tickets or joining tours in advance is recommended. Visiting during Advent offers a unique experience with the small art market held in the Schwahl cloisters. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students.
Datos interesantes
- •King Niels of Denmark's headless body was laid out in the cathedral in 1134, and local legend claims his spirit haunts the cathedral and hunts the surrounding moors with his hounds.
- •The Gothic western tower, completed in 1894, stands at 112 meters, which is considered disproportionately tall compared to the cathedral's overall proportions.
- •The Petri Portal, dating from around 1180, features a tympanum depicting Christ among evangelists and saints, with diverse materials including granite, red sandstone, limestone, and tuff used in its construction.
- •The Schwahl cloisters, built between 1310 and 1320, were historically used for processions and are decorated with restored medieval frescoes illustrating the life of Christ and legendary creatures.
- •The cathedral houses the Bordesholm Altar, a masterpiece of wood carving, and a four-meter-high wooden sculpture of Christophorus by Hans Brüggemann.
Historia
The origins of Schleswig Cathedral trace back to a missionary church founded in Haithabu around 850 and the establishment of the Schleswig diocese in 947.
The first cathedral's exact location and size remain unknown.
Construction of the current Romanesque basilica began in 1134 and was completed around 1200, later expanded into a Gothic hall church between 1200 and 1408.
After two towers collapsed in 1275, the High Gothic Hall Choir was built and completed around 1300.
The cathedral received its final appearance in the late 19th century when the Gothic Revival western tower was constructed, finishing in 1894.
Throughout its history, it has served as a religious center, a ducal tomb, and a cultural landmark.
Guía del lugar
Petri Portalc. 1180
The main entrance to the cathedral, this Romanesque portal dates back to about 1180 and features a richly sculpted tympanum depicting Christ surrounded by evangelists and saints. The portal is constructed from a variety of stones including granite, red sandstone from Skåne, limestone from Gotland, and tuff from the Rhineland. Weathered lion sculptures flank the portal.
High Gothic Hall Choirc. 1300
Constructed after the collapse of earlier towers, this choir was completed around 1300 and features frescos depicting biblical scenes such as the Annunciation and the Coronation of Mary. The choir benches were crafted by an unknown artist known as Magister rusticus in the early 16th century.
Schwahl Cloisters1310-1320
Built between 1310 and 1320, the three-winged cloisters at the northern end of the nave were used for church processions. They contain restored medieval frescoes illustrating the life of Christ and various legendary creatures. During Advent, the cloisters host a small art market.
Gothic Western Tower1888-1894
Constructed from 1888 to 1894 under King William II of Prussia's request, this 112-meter tower is a prominent feature of the cathedral’s skyline. It includes an observation platform at 65 meters offering panoramic views of Schleswig, the Schlei fjord, and the fishing village of Holm. Guided tours to the bells above the platform are available.
Bordesholm Altarearly 16th century
This famous altar is a masterpiece of late Gothic wood carving and a highlight of the cathedral's interior art collection. It is renowned for its intricate detail and religious significance.
Contacto
Teléfono: 04621 989857
