Mainz Cathedral, known in German as Mainzer Dom, rises above the old town with six towers and walls of red sandstone. Work began in 975 under Archbishop Willigis, and fires and wars led to repairs and additions, so Romanesque walls now sit beside Gothic and Baroque features. Inside you will find painted crucifixions, gospel murals, tombs of princes and archbishops, a treasury and a museum of conserved works. The interior is free to walk around, and a guided tour adds the history.
From 975 to the fires of 1009
Work on the cathedral began in 975 under Archbishop Willigis. The building reflects Mainz's standing as the church centre north of the Alps, and it stands with the cathedrals of Worms and Speyer among the Rhenish imperial cathedrals.
The cathedral was damaged more than once. A fire broke out on the day of its planned consecration in 1009, and it is thought that festive lights started it. Willigis began the rebuilding at once. Fires struck again in 1081 and 1137, and over the centuries the cathedral has survived seven fires, along with sieges and wars.
Architecture from several periods
The core of the building is Romanesque, with its red sandstone walls and six towers. Later builders added Gothic features in the chapels and roof, and Baroque elements appear in the interior as well. Each period can still be read in the stonework.
The bronze doors at the north portal are over a thousand years old, which makes them among the oldest of their kind in Europe. The side entrance leads to two altar areas, one for the bishops and one for the rest of the congregation.
Inside the cathedral
The interior holds one of the largest sets of funerary monuments to prince-archbishops in the former Holy Roman Empire. Tombstones and sculptures from the 13th to the 19th century line the walls, and the treasury keeps precious works of art from several eras.
Painted crucifixions in strong colours and gospel scenes high above the clerestory give the interior its character. The cloister is a quiet place to pause, and the cathedral museum shows carefully conserved pieces from earlier centuries.
Visiting the cathedral and its square
Walking through the interior is free. A guided tour gives more depth on the history and art, and advance tickets are recommended for tours and the museum.
The market is held around the cathedral on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with regional and international produce. A market breakfast of Weck, Worscht un Woi is part of the weekly scene. On Saturdays the square gets busy, so arrive early.
The Gutenberg Museum faces the market square, which makes it an easy addition to a visit. In the Christmas season, the Christmas market fills the area around the cathedral.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee for Mainz Cathedral?
Walking around the interior is free. Some exhibitions charge an entry fee, and advance tickets are recommended.
Is a guided tour necessary?
No, but a tour gives more depth on the history and art inside the cathedral.
When is the market at the cathedral?
The weekly market is held on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Saturdays are busy, so arrive early.
Is the cathedral wheelchair accessible?
The cathedral has a wheelchair accessible entrance.
What should I wear when visiting?
Dress modestly. The cathedral is a working church with daily services.
