Aachen Cathedral, a monumental structure, serves as the burial place of Charlemagne, was the coronation church of the Holy Roman emperors, and is a major pilgrimage site. Its architecture reflects centuries of European architectural tradition and its far-reaching historical significance.

The history of today’s Aachen Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece, dates back to around 803 A.D. with the founding of St. Mary’s Church. As the burial place of Charlemagne, the coronation church for Roman-German kings and queens for centuries, and an important place of pilgrimage, the cathedral continues to fulfill its historical and ecclesiastical functions to this day. Recognized in 1978 as Germany’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts over one million visitors annually, who explore the building on their own or as part of guided tours. Every seven years, the Aachen Pilgrimage attracts believers from all over the world who come to contemplate the four shrines venerated there. A tactile model of the cathedral, located to the right of the main entrance, allows blind people to grasp the complex architectural structure. Please note that tourist visits are not permitted during church services, and the cathedral may be closed on short notice due to church events. Access to the cathedral is barrier-free, subject to specific restrictions.

Openings

Eligibility