Bamberg Cathedral
A magnificent 13th-century Romanesque cathedral housing the iconic Bamberg Horseman and imperial tombs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Bamberg Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 13th-century Romanesque cathedral housing the iconic Bamberg Horseman and imperial tombs.
"A must-visit for its impressive scale, ornate architecture, and significant historical artifacts."
Don't Miss the Tombs
Seek out the tomb of Emperor Henry II and Empress Kunigunde; the empress's placement is a unique historical detail . :statueofliberty:
Explore the Catacombs
Discover the history of the cathedral's lower levels and past fires through a unique catacomb tour . :underage:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bamberg Horseman
Interior
Marvel at the iconic 13th-century equestrian statue, a symbol of medieval German royalty.
Tomb of Emperor Henry II and Empress Kunigunde
Interior
Admire the ornate marble tomb, a masterpiece of medieval sculpture, with the empress on the more honored side.
Imperial Cathedral Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Experience the grandeur of this 13th-century Romanesque cathedral with its impressive scale and intricate stonework.
Cathedral Square (Domplatz)
Exterior
Soak in the atmosphere of this historic square, surrounded by significant buildings like the New Residence.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Bamberg Cathedral
Exploring Bamberg's Historical Heart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Don't Miss the Tombs
Seek out the tomb of Emperor Henry II and Empress Kunigunde; the empress's placement is a unique historical detail. :statueofliberty:
Explore the Catacombs
Discover the history of the cathedral's lower levels and past fires through a unique catacomb tour. :underage:
Check for Organ Music
Inquire about pipe organ performances, often held on Saturdays, for a truly immersive experience. :musical_score:
Admire the Bamberg Horseman
Locate the famous 13th-century Bamberg Horseman statue inside the cathedral – a highlight for many visitors. :horse:
Tips
from all over the internet
Don't Miss the Tombs
Seek out the tomb of Emperor Henry II and Empress Kunigunde; the empress's placement is a unique historical detail. :statueofliberty:
Explore the Catacombs
Discover the history of the cathedral's lower levels and past fires through a unique catacomb tour. :underage:
Check for Organ Music
Inquire about pipe organ performances, often held on Saturdays, for a truly immersive experience. :musical_score:
Admire the Bamberg Horseman
Locate the famous 13th-century Bamberg Horseman statue inside the cathedral – a highlight for many visitors. :horse:
Visit the Pope's Burial Site
Look for the burial site of a Pope, a unique feature of the cathedral, though it might be cordoned off. :crown:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bamberg Cathedral for its impressive scale, ornate architecture, and significant historical artifacts like the Bamberg Horseman and royal tombs. The opportunity to explore the catacombs and learn about the city's past adds depth to the experience. Some note external renovations but find the interior equally captivating.
"No if you want to get a sense of the towns history visiting the Cathedral and exploring the connected / nearby buildings is a great place to start. We visited on a busy weekend but found it easy to move through the Cathedral at our own pace on a self guided tour. There were people available to answer questions and were were free to roam respectfully. Walking down to the catacomb was also a unique way to get a sense of history through the life of the space, which has had multiple fires. The stonework and scale is massive. I’m told they have music with the pipe organ on Saturdays but don’t know the details. I can only imagine what the massive organ sounds like during services."
Ross Ambrose
"Great Cathedral very ornate. Great architecture, though it is getting some external renovation right now. A lot of cool architecture inside. Some famous statues of the king and wonderful tomb where the Lady is on the more honored side, basically because she was so beloved!
There is a Pope buried in here, but I was not able to find it, though there were a few sections cordoned off."
Don Dude
"Beautiful cathedral. Make sure you go inside and see the only pope remains in Germany. Very cool!"
Samantha Turnbull
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bamberg Cathedral is centrally located in the city. If arriving by train from Munich, take a direct train to Bamberg (~2 hours). From the train station, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride to the cathedral on Domplatz. The city's attractions are generally close together, making it easy to explore on foot.
Yes, Bamberg is an excellent destination for a day trip, especially from cities like Munich. The compact nature of the city and the proximity of its main sights, including the cathedral, make it manageable within a single day.
Walking is the best way to experience Bamberg's charm. The cathedral is situated on a hill, offering great views as you ascend. Many visitors enjoy strolling along the canals and through the old town.+1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main area of Bamberg Cathedral is generally free, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and key features like the Bamberg Horseman. However, access to certain areas like the catacombs or specific exhibitions may require a ticket.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Bamberg Cathedral website before your visit. Generally, it's open daily, but specific times for the main nave and any special sections might differ.
Yes, the New Residence (Neue Residenz), located near the cathedral, has an entrance fee of approximately 6 Euros.
Yes, Bamberg Cathedral is typically open on Thursdays. If you're planning a one-day visit on a Thursday, it's a good day to explore the cathedral and the surrounding historical sites.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Inside, don't miss the iconic Bamberg Horseman statue, the ornate tomb of Emperor Henry II and Empress Kunigunde, and the burial site of a Pope. The impressive scale and stonework are also highlights.
The Cathedral Square (Domplatz) itself is beautiful and surrounded by other significant historical buildings like the New Residence.
Photography rules can vary. While general photography for personal use is often permitted, flash photography or professional filming might be restricted. It's always best to check for signage or ask a staff member.
The Bamberg Horseman is a significant 13th-century sculpture believed to represent a king or emperor, possibly Conrad III. It's a remarkable example of medieval equestrian art and a key attraction within the cathedral.
Bamberg's history includes dark periods like the witch trials in the early 1600s. While not directly within the cathedral, understanding this context adds depth to the city's historical narrative.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the cathedral, especially from Cathedral Square (Domplatz), offers grand architectural shots. The Bamberg Horseman inside is a must-capture subject. Consider capturing the interplay of light and shadow within the nave.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical landmarks due to privacy and safety regulations. It's advisable to check local drone laws before flying near the cathedral.
Absolutely! The Old Town Hall on the Regnitz River +1 and the charming canals of Little Venice
+1 provide picturesque scenes that complement the cathedral's grandeur.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the interior often has dramatic lighting from its windows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bamberg Horseman: A Medieval Icon
Visitors are often captivated by the statue's presence and the intricate details of the horse and rider. It stands as a testament to the cathedral's importance as a royal and ecclesiastical center during the Holy Roman Empire. The statue's placement within the cathedral adds to its mystique, inviting contemplation on its historical and artistic significance.
A Glimpse into Bamberg's Dark Past: Witch Trials
While the Bamberg Cathedral itself is a place of worship and historical grandeur, understanding this darker chapter provides crucial context for the city's heritage. The legacy of these events serves as a somber reminder of the dangers of mass hysteria and injustice. Travelers interested in this aspect of history might find it a poignant element to consider while exploring Bamberg.
Architectural Grandeur and Royal Tombs
Inside, the cathedral houses significant historical artifacts, most notably the tomb of Emperor Henry II and his wife, Empress Kunigunde. This intricately carved marble tomb is a masterpiece of medieval art, and it's notable for the empress being depicted on the more honored side, reflecting her esteemed status. The presence of a Pope's burial site also adds to the cathedral's historical weight.
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