Stole:
Weaving art from the Rhine-Meuse region of the 12th century. Lampas made of gold and silk
Equal in diversity: two dalmatics
Dalmatic with lions, Byzantium (fabric) and Lower Saxony (embroidery) 2nd half 12th century, silk samite, embroidery of gilded silver lahn
The oldest garment of the cathedral treasure
is a cloak made entirely of finely patterned, golden shimmering silk. cope, Spain, 1st half 12th century, patterned silk samite
Dalmatic with deer and centaurs
The dalmatic, the vestment of deacons, seems to be a counterpart to the red dalmatic with embroidered lion medallions on the other side of the room. In fact, they were made in different places. Embroidery England 1st half 13th century, silk samite, gold embroidery
Honour of St. Euphemia
The chasuble was probably made for an altar of Euphemia donated in 1235, as the embroidery trimmings depict the Archangel Michael and St. Euphemia. Lower Saxony, Harz foreland / Halberstadt c. 1235, various silk samite fabrics, embroidery made of silver thread and silk
Manipel and stole
are completely embroidered with the root of Jesse, i.e. the family tree of Christ, or with saints under arcades. Halberstadt Mid-13th century, linen, gold and silk embroidery
Fabrics of immense richness
The brocade velvets of gold and silk are woven three-dimensionally and have patterns of 90 cm or even 180 cm in height for the chasuble. Archbishop [Ernst of Saxony](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.45,-1.26&ss=303&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) donated the cope, chasuble and two dalmatics (not exhibited) in this splendour probably on the occasion of the consecration of the cathedral in 1491. Brocade velvet probably Florence, 3rd quarter 15th century, embroidery Lower Saxony, 1470/1480, embroidery of silk with sequins, gold and silver threads.
R0bes of Cardinal Albrecht of Brandenburg
On high feasts, the bishop wore all the garments (dalmatic, chasuble and cope) on top of each other. Fabric Italy, embroidery Central Germany, donated by [Albrecht of Brandenburg](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=3.12,-.01&ss=57&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) 1514-1518, silk damask, gold and silk embroidery
The earliest preserved bishop's cap
Mitre with gold borders, embroidery and filigree plates (compare this with the [book cover](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.7,-.04&ss=338&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) in the treasury), Lower Saxony end of the 13th century, fabric of half-silk samite, gold borders, river and glass beads, precious stones, gold filigree, embossed metal plates.
The bishop's mitre is the most precious specimen in the cathedral treasure
and completely embroidered with pearls and corals. Symbolic animals in the border such as the lion and pelican refer to resurrection and sacrificial death. Lower Saxony (embroidery) c. 1300, half-silk samite with embroidery of river, coral, glass beads, gilded metal beads, set stones and embossed metal flowers
The Crusade on a Bishop's cap (mitre)
The embroidered duel between an Oriental and a knight. ### and embroidery Germany, 1st half 14th century, silk lampas, embroidery of silk, silver and gold threads
A belt for the priest
The belt (cingulum) was worn by a Halberstadt clergyman to gird the lowest garment, the alb. Halberstadt, 14th century, border, brocaded, trimmings made of silk and gold thread
A sudarium for the bishop
The sudarium, also called panisellus, was hung on the crook so that the bishop could grasp it without slipping. Lower Saxony, 1st half 14th century, cotton crepe, silk, silver borders, ribbons with silk embroidery, pearl embroidery, bracteates
Shoes for the Bishop
The pontifical shoes have the cow-mouth shape fashionable in their time. Italy/Halberstadt c. 1500, patterned silk velvet, leather sole
Stockings for the Bishop
Pontifical stocking, Italy/Halberstadt, 14th/15th century, fine silk fabric (zendel) and linen lining
Knitted gloves for the bishop
Lower Saxony / Halberstadt 15th century, linen yarn, embroidered with silk and gold thread
A chasuble for the funeral service
The embroidered coat of arms refers to Provost Balthasar von Neuenstadt (Provost 1475-1516), who donated the [Neuenstadt Chapel](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=.16,-1.32&ss=532&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) and other works of art for the cathedral. Possibly he had them made in anticipation of his own funeral service (cf. [epitaph](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.63,-1.37&ss=364&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [wheel chandelier](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.24,-1.22&ss=42&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)). Lower Saxony, early 16th century, silk velvet, gold and silk embroidery with pearls in relief
Textile crucifixion in 3D format
The embroidered depiction of the crucifixion rises out of the fabric like a relief; the embroidered ground was lined with fibres or fabric remnants. The cross once belonged to a chasuble. Lower Saxony c. 1500, embroidery with silk, wool, gold thread, beads (largely lost) and sequins
Chinese role models
with phoenix and dragon from the beginnings of the silk production in Europe show the weavers' orientation towards models from the Far East. Dalmatic, Venice, 3rd quarter 14th century, fabric made of launched silk and half silk fabric
A dramatic encounter
between lion and swan: cope, woven fabric Italy, end of 14th century, gold borders Southern Italy 13th century, embroidery Lower Saxony, 15th century, launched lampas fabric, embroidery of silk, gilded silver thread, pearls, metal plates
Rare motifs - church in fabric
The back of the dalmatic (robe of a deacon) shows alternately the Mother of God enthroned and the risen Christ. These motifs are exceptional in medieval fabrics, which were made for wide-ranging, mostly secular purposes. Woven fabric Italy 1st third 15th century, various launched lampas fabrics
Feathers as a popular attribute of nobility
Chasuble with feather pattern of various silk fabrics, Italy 14th and 15th c., embroidery 2nd half of 15th c., launched lampas, silk fabric, relief embroidery of silk, linen and gold thread
Dalmatic of the canon Melchior Duvel
The name of the Halberstadt canon is repeated several times in the borders woven in Cologne. This reveals that the Cologne border weavers created them especially on his behalf. Dalmatic, Italy (fabric) and Cologne (borders) 2nd half 15th century, silk damask, silk velvet and silk and linen borders
Bright red and shiny gold
The special preciousness of the robe is based on the outstanding representative quality of the material used and also on the generosity of the cutting with considerable loss of material. Dalmatic, silk brocade, Northern Italy 1470-1490, silk damask with brocaded gilded silver threads
A trophy from Constantinople
Church flag with the trimming of a Byzantine veil (kalymma), which [Konrad von Krosigk](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.25,1.16&ss=332&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) brought back from the Fourth Crusade in Constantinople. Church flag, Italy / Halberstadt, last third of the 14th century, patterned silk fabric made of launched lampas. Kalymma, Byzantium, 2nd half of the 12th century, silk velvet with embroidery of gold thread, silk and pearls
The vestments
What clothes did the bishop wear? Approximately 500 textiles from the Middle Ages still exist that once served to dress the bishops, canons and priests as well as to decorate the altars of Halberstadt Cathedral. They show the variety of fabrics and the changes in cuts and decorative forms from the 12th to the 16th century.
A room with a washbasin?
The so-called [lavabo](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.53,-.02&ss=320&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) is located in the sacristy, the room for preparing the services. This is where the clergy kept the necessary equipment such as chalices, plates and censers, cloths and blankets, where they washed and dressed themselves. Chests and cupboards for storage stood and still stand here. They date from the time the sacristy was built in the 14th century and before.
Washbasin with kettle
The lavabo with kettle was used for ceremonial purification of the priest's hands. It is placed next to the corridor to the cathedral. Lavabo kettle, Germany early 15th century, bronze
Heavy iron fittings, locks and defensive dragon creatures
The cupboards in the sacristy are numbered among the oldest examples from the Middle Ages. And they were clearly used to store particularly precious objects. Three cupboards, probably Halberstadt around 1300, oak wood, iron fittings
The painted coat of arms reveals the benefactor
Balthasar von Neuenstadt (1575-1516, [epitaph](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1,-1.35&ss=365&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)) donated the cabinet. The rich cathedral provost also donated the [Neuenstadt chapel](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.87,-1.5&ss=533&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), a [chasuble](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.56,-1.18&ss=261&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), the figure of [St. Laurentius](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.46,-1.11&ss=121&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) and the [wheel chandelier](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.34,-1.23&ss=42&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) in the cathedral. Halberstadt around 1500, spruce, iron, tempera painting
Angels and saints illuminate the Mass
Enamel candlestick with depictions of angels and engraved names of saints. Lower Saxony, probably Hildesheim, 12th century, gilded copper, enamel, rock crystal, iron spike
The celebration of the Mass with all the senses
In the censer grains smoked over glowing coals, their smoke symbolising divine prayer and spreading fragrances in the room. It belongs to a group of export articles of this kind that were produced in the region and exported as far as Scandinavia. Central Germany, c. 1300, bronze
Sole apple of warmth together with its leather case
It was used by the bishop or priest to warm his hands in the icy church before the celebration of mass. Meuse region or northern France end of 13th century, gilded copper, leather-cut case
A noble water dispenser
The lion's aquamanile belongs to one of the most beautiful groups of late Romanesque figurative pouring vessels. It was used to cleanse the hands during mass. Hildesheim around 1220, bronze
Which were the greatest church treasures in the Middle Ages?
Neither gold nor precious stones were valued most, but relics, the material remains of Christ, Mary and the saints.They were believed to have a healing power. These remains could be bones, hair, mummified limbs or objects touched by the saints, such as clothes. Wrapped in precious silk or collected as liquids in ampoules, they were placed in all kinds of containers: apart from gold utensils, also in marquetry boxes, ivory boxes, rush baskets, turned boxes or gilded wooden arms with viewing holes.
The entire primordial church in the table reliquary of gold filigree and precious stones
Relics of Christ, Mary and the Apostles gather the representatives of the New Testament in a single reliquary! Konrad von Krosigk (1201-1209) brought these treasures from Constantinople and had them placed in the precious case (cf. reliquary of St.[ Nicholas](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.58,-.05&ss=334&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [paten](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.67,1.25&ss=336&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), reliquary of St. [James](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.68,-.03&ss=340&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)).Tablet reliquary Harz foreland / Halberstadt 2nd quarter 13th century, gold filigree, precious stones, pearls, enamel, crystals, etc.
A treasure more precious than gold and gemstone
This is how Bishop Konrad von Krosigk (1201-1209) described the treasure of Halberstadt Cathedral as early as the beginning of the 13th century! And yet many of the treasures were made of gold and precious stones. In fact, many of them date from the time of Krosigk, when he was a crusader involved in the sack of Constantinople (see the [paten](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.6,1.16&ss=336&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), the [tablet reliquary](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.59,.01&ss=341&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), the skull reliquary of [St. James](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.65,-.07&ss=340&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), the arm reliquary of St. [Nicholas](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.71,-.09&ss=334&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), the [veil](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.98,1.17&ss=284&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)), and before. Since the 14th century they have been safely stored in the treasury built for them. From the 16th to the 19th century, some of them were also in the [shrine cabinet](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=2.8,1.51&ss=491&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) on the high altar.
Relics found in the high altar
Every altar in the Catholic Church must be consecrated with relics. Wrapped in precious silk, a lead box kept them from decay. Archbishop [Ernst of Saxony](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.56,-1.17&ss=256&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) consecrated the [high altar](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.46,-1.45&ss=662&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) of the cathedral with them in 1491. Reliquary case, Halberstadt, 1491, lead. Reliquary wrapping, Mesopotamia, 10th century, silk.
Liquid relics
such as oils or blood were stored in blown glasses. Glass flacons from the 13th and 15th centuries bear witness to this.
Rush basket
14th/15th century, wood, woven rushes
Travelling altar
Even a small portable altar contained relics, they were inlaid in the small recess. The altar served the bishop and later also priests on journeys to celebrate mass. Portable altar 16th century, inlaid wood, marble
Reliquary in the shape of a burse (pilgrim's bag)
Once richly adorned with precious stones, it still holds relics of the cross, the sponge and the face-cloth of Christ - as an inscription testifies. Central Germany, 12th century, wood (oak), gilded silver sheet, copper sheet, inscription nielloed
Two chest reliquaries
Since the 13th century, relics should be visible. As a result chest reliquaries got transparent walls made of glas, rock christal or clarified horn (they are missing). Chest reliquary with relic early 13th century, gilded copper, and chest reliquary early 13th century, oak, silk lining
Treasures in ivory
Three boxes for the safekeeping of relics. They are still in the box with the hipped roof - sewn into silk bags! Southern Italy or Sicily, 2nd half of 12th century, painted ivory, gilded copper
Why is a falconry depicted on a reliquary box?
Reliquary in the form of an ivory box, 2nd half of the 12th century, ivory, gilded copper fittings
A chess piece as a relic
The game piece of the king comes from an Arabian chess set. According to tradition, Charlemagne (*747/748, † 814) played with it. In Halberstadt he was regarded as the founder of the bishopric and as a saint, the chess stone as a reliquary of the revered emperor (cf. [Charlemagne reliquary,](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.71,-.32&ss=332&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) [Charlemagne tapestry](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.45,-1.38&ss=469&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [pillar figure of St. Charlemagne](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=2.55,-.16&ss=128&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)). Egypt 10th century, rock crystal
A reliquary for Charlemagne
A precious Greek burl glass, once used as a lampshade, serves as a reliquary. It contains a bone of Charlemagne (*747/748, † 814), who was venerated here as a saint (cf. [Charlemagne tapestry](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.29,-1.39&ss=469&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [chess piece](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.56,-.32&ss=332&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [pillar figure of St. Charlemagne](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=2.98,-.18&ss=127&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)). Glass: Byzantium 9th/10th century, gold mount: Central Germany c. 1343, gilded silver, niello
Vessels for the Holy Word of God
Medieval manuscripts such as the Gospel Book were given precious bindings. The star-shaped ornamental plates appear again on a[ bishop's mitre](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.95,-1.38&ss=282&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) and are evidence of local production. Manuscript Halberstadt / Lower Saxony 2nd half of 10th century, ivory panel end of 10th century, binding 13th century, wood, metal, semi-precious stones, filigree
The oldest treasure of the cathedral
is a late Roman consular diptych, i.e. a folding writing tablet. Flavius Constantius gave it to an influential friend in 417 on the occasion of his election as consul. It has survived in secondary use as a book cover. Western Roman Empire 417, ivory
The finger of St. Nicholas?
Coming form Constantiople the mummified finger arrived in Halberstadt in 1205. Bishop Konrad von Krosigk (1201-1209, cf. [paten](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.41,1.42&ss=336&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [tablet reliquary](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.44,-.04&ss=341&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), reliquary of St. [James](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.74,.07&ss=340&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)) bequeathed it to the cathedral on condition that it be kept under rock crystal. Where is it? Arm reliquary of St. Nicholas, Halberstadt / Quedlinburg after 1225, silver gilt, filigree, precious stones
A paten of 2.25 kg silver and gold from the imperial palace chapel, Constantinople, in Halberstadt?
It is an exceptionally finely crafted testimony to Byzantine goldsmith's art. An eyewitness of the Fourth Crusade testifies such a paten, e. g. a votive bread bowl, in the imperial palace chapel. The Bishop of Halberstadt Konrad von Krosigk (1201-1209, cf. [tablet reliquary](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.59,-.01&ss=341&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), reliquaries of St. [Nicholas](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.52,-.21&ss=334&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) and St. [James](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.59,.08&ss=340&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)) is known to have taken some of its objects. Byzantium 11th/12th century, gilded silver
The skull relic of the Apostle James the Younger
still has its original Byzantine metal frame. Together with other relics and art objects ([paten](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.61,1.3&ss=336&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), reliquary of St. [Nicholas](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.56,.04&ss=334&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H),[ tablet reliquary](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.54,-.03&ss=341&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)), it was brought from Constantinople to Halberstadt by Bishop Konrad von Krosigk in 1205. Applications: Byzantium 12th c., silver, remains of enamel
Why are there so many arm reliquaries?
Six arm reliquaries are still preserved in the cathedral treasure today, four made of gilded silver, two of gilded wood. Their shape was used at special celebrations to bless the faithful with the arm. Thus, believers received this blessing directly from the saint whose relics they contained.
Arm reliquary of St Stephen
Halberstadt / Quedlinburg, 1205-1208, gilted silver, filigree, precious stones and pearls; wooden core
Arm Reliquary of the Apostle James the Elder
Lower Saxony / Harz foreland 1st half 14th century, silver gilt, precious stones, mother-of-pearl, pearls, glass; wooden core
Arm reliquiary
Lower Saxony / Harz foreland, c. 1350/1360, silver gilt, rock crystal, gemstones, enamel; wooden core
Epitaph of Balthasar von Neuenstadt, Provost of the Cathedral 1475-1516
Originally, the memorial plate was located in the central nave of the cathedral under the [wheel chandelier](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.32,-1.2&ss=42&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) he donated. The rich provost also donated the [Neuenstadt chapel](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.42,-1.51&ss=531&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), the [Marian tapestries](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.29,-.03&ss=439&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), the figure of St. [Laurentius](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=2.04,-1&ss=118&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), a [chasuble](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.6,-1.11&ss=261&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) and a [cabinet](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.04,.13&ss=319&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H). Hermann Vischer the Younger, Nuremberg 1516, bronze
Christ's dying in fine alabaster
The alabaster figures belong to the retable of the[ Altar of the Cross](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.15,1.22&ss=44&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) in the crossing of the cathedral. The detailed groups of people vividly illustrate the various events surrounding Christ's death. Central Germany, c. 1450, alabaster, hardwood, partially painted and gilded
A room with deep wounds
In the chapter house, the clergy gathered to read chapters from the writings of the Church Fathers or from the rules of the order and to converse. It was built in place of the [old chapter house](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.2,.73&ss=584&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) at the beginning of the 16th century as a room heated with a tiled stove for more comfortable meetings. It was once covered by a magnificent net vault. Bomb hits on 8 April 1945 caused it to collapse. Since the 19th century, the chapter house has served as a display and exhibition space for the works of the cathedral and the cathedral treasure. The altarpieces come from the once more than 40 altars in the cathedral and were mainly created between 1470 and 1530/40, when the cathedral was completed.
In harmonious gestures
saints move like a court around the Madonna crowned as Queen of Heaven with a coral necklace. The Child Jesus playfully reaches into the blood-red pearls. The retable comes from the altar of the [Lady Chapel](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.36,-1.51&ss=178&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), as probably does the [antependium](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.49,.83&ss=236&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H). Central Germany end of the 14th century, oak, tempera painting
Hail Mary!
The beginning of the prayer once resounded many times from the walls of the cathedral and its chapels. Mary has been intensively venerated since the founding of the diocese, first in a crypt of the former buildings, then in the Gothic cathedral in the choir chapel. Numerous statues of Mary in the cathedral, reliefs, pictures and the altarpiece of the Madonna with the Coral Necklace from the period of the International Style show Mary as the God-bearer, the Sorrowful Mother and the Queen of Heaven.
Mary as Queen of Heaven together with St. Stephen as double portrait
Such a two-sided sculpture has survived only rarely from the Middle Ages. It was once mounted on a pole and used in processions. Central Germany early 15th century, oak wood
Deep sorrow of the Blessed Mother
Mary bends over the body of Christ in gentle gestures. Since the 14th century more and more sculptures of the so-called Pietà (piety, compassion) expressed the compassion of the Blessed Mother with her son. c. 1500, hardwood, tempera painting
The splendour of the Middle Ages in colourful wool!
The oldest woven tapestries of the Christian West tell stories of Abraham and vividly depict the majesty of God and the Kingdom of Heaven. The tapestry of Charlemagne and the fragments of the Philosophers' tapestry focus on the wisdom of the medieval scholarly world at Halberstadt Cathedral. These tapestries once hung in the [choir](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.07,1.02&ss=637&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) of the cathedral on special holidays and bathed it in a festive dress.
The oldest woven tapestry manufactured in die Occident
Over ten metres long, the tapestry tells the biblical story of Abraham, the progenitor of the Israelites, his steadfastness in faith, willingness to sacrifice and redemption. The visit of the three angels to Abraham and the sacrifice of Isaac are depicted in tight figure specification. Lower Saxony c. 1250, linen, wool
Christ is enthroned in the gloriole,
accompanied at the sides by archangels and apostles. The supernatural scene points to the Heavenly Jerusalem. The different widths on the right and left reveal a specific place in the [choir](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=.79,-1.39&ss=660&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) with different space on the sides. Tapestry of Christ and the Apostles, Lower Saxony 2nd half 12th century, linen, wool
Charlemagne, emperor and saint
As the founder of a bishopric, Charlemagne (747/748-814) experienced deep veneration in Halberstadt, which intensified when he was canonised in 1165 (see his reliquaries [Chess Figure](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.73,-.31&ss=332&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [Charlemagne Cup](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.73,-.31&ss=332&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) and the [pillar figure of St. Charlemagne](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=2.81,-.14&ss=127&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)). The Charlemagne Tapestry celebrates him as a wise ruler. Lower Saxony 2nd quarter 13th century Linen, wool
Tapestry in honour of Mary
Both of these Marian tapestries were commissioned by the cathedral provost Balthasar von Neuenstadt (1475-1516, [epitaph](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.57,-1.34&ss=365&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)) to decorate his [chapel](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.51,-1.41&ss=533&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) on feast days. There they hung along the side walls. Middle Rhine, early 16th century Linen, wool
A meticulous craftsmanship!
Embroidery stitches cover the entire surface of the linen cloth. The expressive figures as well as the richness of the design show the outstanding quality of Lower Saxon pictorial embroidery since the 13th century. Embroidered linen cloth, Lower Saxony, last third of the 13th century, linen, silk and linen embroidery
The choir doors
were created for the [northern ](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.13,.07&ss=653&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)and [southern](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-3.07,.05&ss=637&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) entrances to the High Choir when it was completed around 1400. The paintings, disturbed by scribbles from different centuries, follow models from Bohemia. Halberstadt around 1400, coniferous wood, parchment, tempera painting
A safe from the high altar
The shrine cabinet from the [high altar](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=.08,-1.51&ss=661&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) is made of solid oak boards and was nailed all around with iron plates. Nine locks, kept by different clergymen, made it theft-proof. What were its [precious](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.79,-.76&ss=337&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) contents? Halberstadt around 1520, oak, iron
St. Stephen greets visitors to the cathedral treasury
He has been the [patron](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.71,1.01&ss=94&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) saint of the cathedral since the foundation of the diocese. The stones on the book point to his martyrdom, for the saint was stoned to death. Two of the stones are in the display case in the base of the figure and in the [treasury](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.24,1.36&ss=330&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H). Central Germany end of 15th century, lime wood, tempera painting
Works from the Liebfrauenkirche
On the opposite side of the cathedral square, the Bishop of Halberstadt Arnulf (996-1023) founded the collegiate monastery in honour of Mary in 1005; the Romanesque Church of Our Lady is dedicated to her. The monastery and church were closely linked to the cathedral chapter. When the building threatened to fall into disrepair after secularisation in 1810, some of its art treasures were saved for the cathedral treasury.
Mary as Queen of Heaven with Child
in its classical beauty and balance, is one of the highest quality sculptures of its time. It occupied an important place in the devotion to Mary in the Liebfrauenkirche. Halberstadt around 1220, oak wood, original painting
The Halberstadt cabinet is the most important testimony from the early history of furniture art
Its painting depicting the Annunciation to Mary follows Byzantine models. Halberstadt / Lower Saxony 2nd quarter 13th century, oak and coniferous wood, parchment, gilding, tempera painting
Welcome to Halberstadt Cathedral and its Treasury
The Episcopal Church and its cathedral treasure convey the space and furnishings of the cathedral in unique abundance, not only with altars and sculptures, but also with the church utensils, the clothes and textile decor, the objects of the cult and those of everyday use. The high quality of the works of art testifies to the prestigious position of the Halberstadt bishopric from the 9th to the 16th century.
With baptism, the baptised person enters the community of believers
Shaped simply like a Romanesque chalice, the baptismal font illustrates the same idea of the term "fons vitae" ("source of life") as the communion chalice. Bishop Gardolf von Habecke (1193-1201) donated it at the end of the 12th century. Halberstadt 1195, Limestone (Rübeländer Marble)
The Halberstadt Cathedral
is one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Germany. It was the seat of the oldest bishopric in the East. Probably Charlemagne founded it at the beginning of the 9th century. The present architecture was built uniformly according to a plan over a 250-year construction period. The bishop's church was consecrated in 1491.
The oldest works of art
After the foundation of the diocese at the beginning of the 9th century, there were several church buildings after another, which were repeatedly destroyed by fire and war and rebuilt. The [baptismal](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.18,-1.33&ss=183&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) font and the [triumphal cross group](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.5,-1.23&ss=69&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) originate from the predecessor building of today's cathedral.
Mourning and triumph over death and sin
The figures show Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross, with Mary, John and two winged angels. Symbols of evil defeated writhe beneath their feet. The triumphal cross group is the only one of the Romanesque period still completely preserved. Halberstadt / Lower Saxony c. 1220, wood, polychrome painted and gilded
Ecumenism from the beginning: The pulpit
was donated by both Protestant and Catholic canons one year after the introduction of the Reformation and thus symbolises Halberstadt's special path of common ground between the confessions. Halberstadt 1592, wood, painted
The wheel chandelier
symbolises the heavenly Jerusalem in its ring with twelve towers. It was donated by Balthasar von Neuenstadt (Provost 1475-1516), who had himself buried under it ([epitaph](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.57,-1.34&ss=365&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)). He donated other works of art such as a [cabinet](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=.03,.03&ss=319&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [St. Laurentius](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=2.15,-.97&ss=118&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) and the [Neuenstadt chapel](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=.83,-1.38&ss=531&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H). Lower Saxony before 1516, bronze
The Descent of Mary
is represented by the three wings of an altar donated by Cardinal [Albrecht of Brandenburg](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.84,.02&ss=252&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H). Her royal origin, the clan of Mary, had already been described by Haimo of Halberstadt (†853). The pictorial panels attest to the long tradition of the theme. Harz foreland 1513/1520, coniferous wood, tempera painting
The madonna with the dove
is one of the many examples of the intense devotion to Mary in the cathedral. Mary as Queen of Heaven turns in intimate relationship to the Child Jesus. It plays with the dove as a symbol of the soul, symbol of baptism, the Holy Spirit and reference to divine election. Around 1380, sandstone, coloured
The figure of St. Laurentius
was donated by Balthasar von Neuenstadt (provost 1475-1516, [epitaph](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.45,-1.23&ss=365&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)), as attested by the coat of arms on the pedestal. The rich cathedral provost donated numerous other objects ([cabinet](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=.03,.03&ss=319&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [wheel chandelier](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.14,-1.27&ss=42&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)) to the cathedral and cathedral treasury! Halberstadt c. 1510, sandstone, painted
In the centre of the rood screen are St. Stephen and St. Sixtus, the figures of the two patrons of the church.
The building was constructed after the completion of the choir as a separation between the laymen's room and the priests in the high choir. Halberstadt end of 15th century, limestone and sandstone
Mary Magdalene with ointment vessel and thurible in her hands
comes from a former group of women at the tomb of Jesus. The high-quality sculpture has its original colouring in exceptionally good condition. Halberstadt around 1350, sandstone, painted
The High Choir
is the area of the cathedral that was reserved for the clergy. Here they prayed the hourly prayers, from 1591 Protestants and Catholics together. From the 16th to the 19th century, the reliquaries stood here in the shrine on the altar. On feast days, the medieval [tapestries](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.33,.06&ss=444&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) decorated the walls and bathed the choir in a colourful world of images.
The Lady Chapel,
consecrated in 1361, is the almost completely preserved ensemble of a chapel design in the middle of the 14th century. This includes the cycle of coloured windows and the pillar figures with the Three Kings in front of Mary and the Child. The altar of the "[Madonna with the coral necklace](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.05,-.01&ss=415&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)" and an [antependium](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.49,.83&ss=236&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) probably also come from here.
The cloister
The cloister was once surrounded by all the rooms necessary for the staff at the cathedral: Bedrooms, dining rooms, storerooms and meeting rooms. Today, the [old chapter house](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=.02,-.5&ss=591&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) and the remter bear witness to this.
Old chapter house
The chapter house got its name from the reading of the chapters from the rules of the order and the writings of the church fathers. It also served as a meeting room for the clergy of Halberstadt Cathedral. They used it for this purpose from the 13th to the 16th century, then they built a more luxuriously furnished [new chapter house](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=.09,-.84&ss=398&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) with a tiled stove above the northern[ cloister](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-3.01,1.1&ss=550&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H).
Neuenstadt Chapel
Perpetual choir prayers in honour of the Virgin Mary: Provost Balthasar von Neuenstadt (Provost 1475-1516, [epitaph](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.57,-1.34&ss=365&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)) donated the chapel in the cloister together with all the furnishings as well as the posts for four priest vicars and two choir students, who sang numerous prayers every day at set hours from early morning until late at night. Mary's altar, [Marian tapestries](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.12,.04&ss=439&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) as well as the candelabrum, perhaps also a [chasuble](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.81,-1.2&ss=261&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) with relief embroidery, belong to the extensive donation of the building, which was completed in 1503.
The cathedral treasure
With over 1200 works of art, it is the most extensive medieval church treasure that has survived at the place where it was used. Top works such as the unique golden paten from Byzantium, the oldest woven tapestries of the Christian West or the altarpiece of the Madonna with the Coral Necklace stand for the recognised high value of the ensemble.
Monument for a great scholar
Johannes Semeca (also Zemeke, 1170-1245) taught at the University of Bologna before becoming provost in Halberstadt. He was highly educated and donated several precious manuscripts, such as the magnificent m[issal of the film](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy_xMU_ijcI). After the completion of the cathedral, he received this memorial. Halberstadt 1491, sandstone, metal, wood
Bishop's chasuble
of Frederick III of Brandenburg. He was archbishop and aministrator of Halberstadt 1550-1552 and died here ([tomb](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=2.7,.19&ss=660&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)). The coats of arms mark his origin, the relief-embroidered figure of St. Anthony with the pig at his feet refers to the patron saint of peasants and domestic animals. 1550-1552, velvet, gold brocade, embroidery silk, gilded silver thread
The stone of St. Stephen
Two stones from the stoning of St. Stephen commemorate his martyrdom. This stone is set in silver, the second is under the [figure of St. Stephen](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.53,-1.35&ss=494&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H). Stone granite, setting 13th century, silver
The church patron
The first clergymen of the diocese of Halberstadt came from Châlons sur Marne and brought with them relics of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. The church was consecrated to him. The sculpture shows him with the signs of his martyrdom, the stones: He was stoned to death (cf. [figure of St. Stephen](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.55,-1.25&ss=494&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)). Around 1513, sandstone
The cathedral - a house of ecumenism
In 1591, the then Bishop Heinrich Julius of Brunswick introduced the Reformation at the cathedral. However, he left the decision to the canons whether they wanted to remain Catholic or convert to Protestantism. In the end, four canons remained Catholic, the others became Protestant. The bishop reformed the prayers and services at the cathedral so that Protestants and Catholics performed the hourly prayers together. Until secularisation in 1810, the mixed-denominational cathedral chapter lived in this common ecumenism. The altar in the centre of the cathedral was traditionally the altar of the cross. Its [altarpiece](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=.11,.13&ss=369&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) with the depiction of the crucifixion made of alabaster sculptures is preserved in the cathedral treasury.
Enter the historic rooms of the cathedral cloister with the cathedral treasure!
The cloister was once the enclosed area to which only the clergy had access. The various parts of the building date from the 14th to 16th centuries. Today they house the exhibition of the cathedral treasure.
Silk, gold and precious stones,
finest linen and pearls form the decoration of the vestments and altar furnishings. At the time of their creation from the 12th to the 16th century, they represented the splendour and power of the church and its dignitaries. They illustrate the high standards that the bishops and canons of the Halberstadt diocese represented.
With narrative expressiveness and a dense turmoil of characters
the panel paintings depict the life and death of Christ. The central picture shows the crucifixion with the various incidents during the Passion. The retable, which is still completely preserved, was signed by the painter Hans Raphon (1460/70-1512) in 1508. Lower Saxony (Einbeck?) 1508, coniferous wood, tempera painting
Tapestry in honour of Mary
Twelve pictorial scenes depict selected events from Mary's life, starting with the Ppresentation of the Mother of God in the temple and ending with her death and the coronation of the Virgin Mary. The ground of blossom vines symbolises the Garden of Paradise. Middle Rhine, early 16th century Linen, wool
Probably the most magnificent bead embroidery
of the late 12th century in Lower Saxony shows the colourful coronation of Mary with angels and saints. It once decorated the front of an [Lady altar](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.05,-.01&ss=415&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) and was used in the [Lady Chapel](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=1.36,-1.51&ss=178&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) of the cathedral. Antependium, end of 13th century, half silk atlas, embroidery with pearls, corals, glass beads, gilded metal beads
The sacred place of the church
is the [high altar](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.44,-1.21&ss=303&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), once the [shrine cabinet](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=2.39,1.49&ss=490&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) for the reliquaries stood on it, today it is crowned by the retable of the altar of St. George. The right wing shows the martyrdom of St. George in the boiling lead cauldron and his beheading. Below in the so-called predella he stands as a knightly dragon slayer on the right. Central Germany c. 1490. oak, tempera paint, gilding
Emperor Charlemagne
was considered the founder of the diocese of Halberstadt. Since his canonisation in 1165, his veneration increased, which found expression in relics of the emperor ([chess piece](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.59,-.15&ss=332&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H), [Charlemagne reliquary](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-2.59,-.15&ss=332&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H)) and other pictorial themes such as the [Charlemagne tapestry](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.99,-1.42&ss=469&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) in the cathedral. Halberstadt c. 1475, sandstone, gilding, painted
The Word of God on buoyant wings
is illustrated by the eagle lectern. It was used for reading biblical texts and especially the Gospels. Central Germany 16th century Bronze, brass, iron
Body and Blood of Christ - the consecrated bread and wine -.
was preserved in the elaborately designed sacrament cabinet. Coordinated in colour with the [shrine](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.2,1.56&ss=491&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) from the high altar, its central section depicts a monstrance as it once stood inside. Halberstadt 15th century, oak, painted
The choir stalls of the canons
were built shortly after the completion of the choir and served the members of the cathedral chapter at prescribed times and in fixed order: the canons were seated in the second row, the vicars in the first, led by the provost in the south and the dean in the north. Halberstadt around 1400, oak
The sarcophagus of Bishop Bernard
is a rare testimony to funerary forms of the 10th century. After 45 years in office, the politically influential bishop of Halberstadt died in 968 and was buried in the centre of the choir in the Ottonian predecessor building. Halberstadt 968. limestone
Access not possible
Unfortunately, for technical reasons, this access to the High Choir is not possible. Please use one of the other three doors.
The choir doors
open and close the access to the High Choir, which was only allowed to the clergy. They are copies of the originals from around 1400, which are on [display](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.47,.4&ss=483&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) in the cathedral treasury.
The choir doors
open and close the access to the High Choir, which was only allowed to the clergy. They are copies of the originals from around 1400, which are on [display](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-.47,.4&ss=483&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H) in the cathedral treasury.
Tomb of Frederick III of Brandenburg
The archbishop of Magdeburg and administrator of Halberstadt died in Halberstadt at the age of only 21. He also donated a still preserved [chasuble](https://my.matterport.com/show/?play=1&sr=-1.56,1.2&ss=246&m=Q6rN6UtQU2H). The high-quality epitaph was created by the Berlin sculptor Hans Schenck gen. Scheußlich (around 1500-1566). Berlin/Halberstadt 1558, sandstone, marble, metal
To the cloister and cathedral treasury
Passage