Essen Cathedral—Treasure Chamber
The glamorous history of the city is revealed in this cathedral treasure chamber. Priceless ecclesiastical exhibits are shown here and attest to the power and the affluence of ruling abbesses, who governed the monastery as well as the City of Essen from the 9th through to the 19th century. The “Golden Madonna” is recognized as the oldest known sculpture of the Virgin Mary in the Western world. In the 9th century Bishop Altfrid founded a free and secular ladies convent specifically for the ladies of the nobility which eventually became the city of Essen. They were not lacking in wealth or strong political influence due to the close family ties that the ladies had to the Ottonian ruling house. An indication of their affluence is found in the ”Child’s Crown” of Otto III, the Essen abbess Mathilde was his godmother. In contrast, the four crucifixes dating back to the Ottonic times represent piety. There are only six of these masterpieces left in the world.
Burgplatz 2, 45127 Essen-City Centrephone + 49 / (0) 201 / 22 04 206
www.domschatz.info
Guided Tours: Sunday 11.45 am and Wednesday 6.30 pm