St Mary's Cathedral and St Michael's Church at Hildesheim

The Dom und Michaeliskirche, also known as the Hildesheim Cathedral and St. Michael's Church, is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in the historic city of Hildesheim in Germany. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for any history or architecture enthusiast.

The cathedral was built in the Romanesque style during the 11th century, making it one of the oldest surviving churches in Germany. It is dedicated to St. Mary and St. Michael, and is renowned for its two tall and intricately designed towers, which can be seen from miles away.

As you enter the cathedral, you will be greeted by the breathtaking interior, featuring beautiful stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and ornate decorations. The cathedral also houses many important relics, including the bronze doors known as the "Bernward Doors", which are considered to be one of the greatest masterpieces of medieval art.

One of the most iconic features of the cathedral is the thousand-year-old rosebush, which grows on the exterior wall and blooms every year, symbolizing the resilience and endurance of the church.

Next to the cathedral is the St. Michael's Church, a smaller but equally impressive structure. This church was also built in the Romanesque style and is famous for its unique painted wooden ceiling and the "Christ Column", a stone column depicting the crucifixion of Jesus.

Visitors can also explore the crypts of both the cathedral and the church, where they can see the final resting places of many bishops and former rulers of Hildesheim.

In addition to its architectural and historical significance, the Dom und Michaeliskirche also serves as an important spiritual center for the local community. Regular church services and concerts are held here, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of this cultural landmark.

Overall, the Dom und Michaeliskirche is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Hildesheim. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

St Michael's Church was built between 1010 and 1020 on a symmetrical plan with two apses that was characteristic of Ottonian Romanesque art in Old Saxony. Its interior, in particular the wooden ceiling and painted stucco-work, its famous bronze doors and the Bernward bronze column, are – together with the treasures of St Mary's Cathedral – of exceptional interest as examples of the Romanesque churches of the Holy Roman Empire.