Table of Contents
What makes Hildesheim Cathedral’s doors so special?
In the year 1015 Bishop Bernward commissioned the two door leaves for the west entrance of Hildesheim Cathedral. The doors measure 4.72 metres in height and, being the tallest amongst all doors of their era, they occupy a special status amongst medieval doors. Even at the the time they were made, the bronze door leaves were unique.
Where is St Hildesheim Cathedral?
Hildesheim Cathedral is situated at the southern middle of the city centre of Hildesheim, on the so-called Domhügel (“Cathedral’s Hill”). The main entrances to the cathedral are on the south and north sides. The Roemer-and Pelizaeus-Museum, is very close to the cathedral in the west. Around the hill is the wall of the Domburg. St.
What happened to the first four bishops of Hildesheim?
Bishop Gunthar of Hildesheim, who was in office from 815 to 834, had a small basilica with two round towers built immediately to the south of the chapel, which he dedicated to Saint Cecilia. This served as the original cathedral and Stift church. The first four bishops were buried there. Only traces of the foundations of these two buildings remain.
How old is the organ at Hildesheim Cathedral?
The history of the organ at Hildesheim Cathedral dates back to the fourteenth century. In 1378, there was an organ in the north aisle, above the chapel of the Three Kings. This instrument was relocated to the Godehard choir during the fifteenth century and eventually sold in 1713.
What are the doors at Hildesheim made of?
The doors are made up of a number of framed panels; unlike the Roman originals, however, the design at Hildesheim is not their design, but probably an imitation of the ancient Roman examples.
Are the Bernward doors similar to the Moutier-Grandval Bible?
Some scenes of the Bernward Doors, e.g. the creation of Adam or the earthly life of Adam and Eve are arranged nearly identically to the so-called Moutier-Grandval Bible (London, British Library, Ms Add. 10546).
What are the oldest cathedrals in Germany?
The Hildesheim Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary is one of the oldest cathedrals in Germany. Its architectural history goes back to the 11th century, but the history of its origin reaches as far back as the year 815. According to legend, it was a miracle through a relic that prompted Emperor Ludwig the Pious to build a Lady Chapel on this site.