Goslar Imperial Palace
Niedersachsen
The Imperial Palace of Goslar, located at the foot of the Rammelsberg hill in southern Goslar, Germany, is a significant medieval building complex covering approximately 340 by 180 meters. It was a favored residence of the Salian emperors, especially Henry III, who expanded and completed the site in the mid-11th century with the help of architect Benno II. The complex originally included the Kaiserhaus, the collegiate church of St. Simon and St. Jude, the palace chapel of St. Ulrich, and the Church of Our Lady, though some structures no longer survive. The Kaiserhaus is notable as the largest secular building of its era, featuring a grand two-story hall with an imperial throne on the upper floor. The palace played a central role in imperial governance during the High Middle Ages and remains exceptionally well-preserved, with much of its medieval fabric still visible despite 19th-century restorations. Since 1992, it forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Goslar's Old Town and the Rammelsberg mining site, reflecting its millennium-long association with mining and medieval imperial power. Today, the palace hosts cultural events and offers visitors a glimpse into the political and architectural grandeur of medieval Germany.
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Tip: Visitors should consider joining guided tours to fully appreciate the historical and architectural significance of the palace. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when outdoor areas and gardens are accessible. Tickets may be purchased in advance, especially for special events held in the Kaisersaal. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website for opening hours and reservation options to plan your visit efficiently.
Interesting facts
- •The Kaiserhaus is the largest secular building of the 11th century in Germany.
- •Lampert of Hersfeld called the palace the "most famous residence in the empire" in the 11th century.
- •Henry III's heart is interred in the Ulrich Chapel within the palace grounds.
- •The palace complex is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, together with Goslar's Old Town and the Rammelsberg mining site.
- •The Kaisersaal was decorated in the 19th century by artist Herman Wislicenus with a historicizing mural program.
History
The origins of the Imperial Palace of Goslar likely trace back to a royal hunting lodge mentioned in the Ottonian period.
Around 1005, Henry II built the first imperial residence here, capitalizing on the nearby rich ore deposits.
Conrad II began expansions in the 1030s, including laying the foundation for the Church of Our Lady.
The complex reached its zenith under Henry III in the mid-11th century, who commissioned architect Benno II to complete the Kaiserhaus and the collegiate church.
The palace served as a principal imperial residence and administrative center for about two centuries.
In the 19th century, the Kaiserhaus underwent significant restoration and decoration, preserving much of its medieval character to this day.
Place Guide
Kaiserhaus1040-1050
The central and largest building of the complex, the Kaiserhaus is a two-story hall measuring 54 by 18 meters. It features two large rooms on each floor with beam ceilings supported by columns. The upper hall housed the emperor and his close entourage, with the imperial throne set against the rear west wall. The east wall contained windows offering views over the palace district. Adjacent to the north is a residential building connected to the now-lost Church of Our Lady via a gallery.
Ulrich ChapelLate 12th century
Located south of the Kaiserhaus and connected by a 19th-century arcade, the Romanesque Ulrich Chapel dates mainly from the late 12th century. It is notable for being the burial place of Emperor Henry III's heart, reflecting the emperor's strong connection to Goslar.
Collegiate Church of St. Simon and St. Jude1050s
Originally an east-west aligned collegiate church opposite the Kaiserhaus, only the northern porch remains today. Its foundation layout is incorporated into the modern parking lot surface. The church was completed in the mid-11th century under Henry III and architect Benno II.
Contact
Phone: 05321 704437
