ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL The cathedral is impressive for its sheer size – and, of course, for its unique art treasures. Take the gilded Hezilo chandelier from the Middle Ages, which is six metres in dia- meter! Or the Bernward Doors – a masterpiece of bronze casting. The Thousand-year Rose is a popular photo oppor- tunity in the courtyard framed by the cloister. In the Cathe- dral Museum, you can learn about the legend that literally surrounds this place, dating back to the founding of the diocese in 815. Among other things, the Cathedral Treasury, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be seen here – one of the world's most impressive collections of sacred art. ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH Its slightly elevated position, massive towers and walls give this former Benedictine monastery a fortress-like appea- rance – powerful on the outside, harmonious on the inside with a strictly symmetrical floor plan. Built between 1010 and 1022 by Bishop Bernward, the three-aisled, double- choir basilica with its Lower Saxon alternating columns and fully formed cube capitals is one of the most import- ant surviving churches in the Ottonian (pre-Romanesque) architectural style. Don't forget to look up when you're in the church – the ceiling of the central nave is adorned by a monumental panel painting from the High Middle Ages, created around 1200. The Tree of Jesse is depicted on 1,300 painted oak planks. EXPERIENCE EXHIBITION The free interactive exhibition on the upper floor of the Tourist Information Office in the historic Market Square is the perfect way to deepen your understanding of the UNESCO World Heritage in Hildesheim and the surrounding region. The exhibition is currently being redesigned and is expected to reopen in time for UNESCO World Heritage Day.
40 YEARS OF UNESCO- WORLD HERITAGE
St Michael’s Church
A whole weekend dedicated to World Heritage! Hildesheim is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a diverse pro- gramme of events, and is also hosting the official opening of the nationwide UNESCO World Heritage Day on 1 June 2025.
www .hildesheim-tourismus.de/welterbetag
St Michael’s Church
Currently, there are 1,223 UNESCO World Heritage Sites worldwide across 168 countries, with 54 located in Germany alone. But what exactly is UNESCO’s mission? UNESCO is dedicated to preserving and protecting the world’s rich cultural and natural heritage. It also plays a vital role in fostering global cooperation, promoting peace and ensuring security. UNESCO World Heritage Sites serve as powerful symbols of this mission, connecting people by showcasing diversity, global solidarity and our shared re - sponsibility. These extraordinary places tell the story of hu - manity’s lives and labours, offering fascinating insights into the development of our planet. One heritage – two churches: In 1985, exactly 40 years ago, St Mary’s Cathedral and St Michael’s Church at Hildesheim were jointly added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Together with their artistic treasures, these two churches are remarkable examples of religious art in the Holy Roman Empire and outstanding achievements of early Romanesque architecture.
St Mary’s Cathedral
St Mary’s Cathedral
Cathedral rood screen, Cathedral Museum
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