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Magdeburg Cathedral
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Magdeburg Cathedral, dedicated to St. Maurice and St. Catherine, is the first cathedral on German soil to be designed in the Gothic style from its inception and serves as the landmark of the city of Magdeburg. Construction of the current church began in 1209 after a fire destroyed the previous Ottonian basilica. Historically, the cathedral is of immense importance as it houses the tomb of Emperor Otto the Great, who made Magdeburg his preferred residence in the 10th century. Its architecture combines Romanesque influences in the lower structures with the emerging High Gothic style of the choir and nave walls. Particularly impressive are the two west towers, which reach a height of over 100 meters and dominate the Elbe landscape from afar. The interior contains valuable art treasures, such as the ancient porphyry columns brought from Italy by Otto I, and the famous Magdeburg Cenotaph by Ernst Barlach, which commemorates those fallen in World War I.
- Location: Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
- Nearby: Wolmirstedt (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 56 | 36 | 43 | 33 | 60 | 55 | 79 | 57 | 54 | 49 | 51 | 55 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Magdeburg Cathedral is open for visitors both outside and inside. Entry to the nave is typically free, while climbing the tower usually requires a small fee.
Typical hours
The cathedral is typically open daily from early morning until evening. Services are held several times a day, during which visiting may be restricted.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed inside without flash. During services, using flash is discouraged out of respect.
Time needed
Allow about one to one and a half hours for visiting the cathedral. If you also climb the tower, expect two to three hours total.
Combine with
Combine the cathedral with the adjacent Cathedral Museum and the Cathedral Square. A walk to the Elbe River or to the Monastery of Our Lady is also worthwhile.
Getting there
The cathedral is centrally located in Magdeburg and easily reachable by public transport. From the main train station it is about a 15-minute walk or two tram stops.
Insider tip
Climb the tower in the late afternoon for the best light for photos over the city. The ascent is strenuous but rewards you with a magnificent view.
Geography
Facts
- The construction of the current cathedral spanned about 300 years, ending in 1520.
- Otto the Great was interred here in the year 973.
- The north tower stands 104 meters tall, while the south tower is 99 meters high.
- The cathedral is approximately 120 meters long with a ceiling height of 32 meters.
- The first Protestant sermon was held in the cathedral in 1567.
- During the Thirty Years' War, 4,000 people survived the city's destruction inside the cathedral.
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Sights in the town Magdeburg Cathedral (1)
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Frequently asked questions
Who is buried in Magdeburg Cathedral?
The cathedral houses the tomb of Emperor Otto the Great, the founder of the Holy Roman Empire.
Is there an entry fee for the cathedral?
Visiting the cathedral is generally free, but donations for maintenance are welcome.
Can you climb the cathedral towers?
Yes, tower tours are offered from April to October, providing a panoramic view over Magdeburg.
Is photography allowed inside the cathedral?
Yes, private photography without flash is allowed. Professional shots require a permit.
When are church services held?
The main service is Sundays at 10:00 AM. Sightseeing is not possible during services.
Magdeburg Cathedral: where is it located?
Magdeburg Cathedral is located in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
Magdeburg Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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