Aachen Cathedral

Definition

Aachen Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Aix-la-Chapelle, is a significant architectural masterpiece that served as the church for Charlemagne and later became a key site for the coronation of Holy Roman Emperors. This iconic structure reflects the Carolingian Renaissance's revival of Roman forms through its innovative design, combining elements from classical antiquity and early Christian architecture, showcasing the blend of power and spirituality during this transformative era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aachen Cathedral was built starting in 787 AD under Charlemagne and was completed in 797 AD, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe still in use today.
2. The cathedral's Palatine Chapel features a stunning octagonal dome that reflects Byzantine influences, showcasing the blending of various architectural styles.
3. It became a key site for the coronation of 30 German kings from 936 to 1531, symbolizing its importance in European politics and religion.
4. In 1978, Aachen Cathedral was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance and exceptional architecture.
5. The cathedral contains numerous relics, including Charlemagne's remains, which further emphasize its role as a pilgrimage site and center of worship.

Review Questions

• How does Aachen Cathedral exemplify the architectural innovations of the Carolingian Renaissance?
  • Aachen Cathedral exemplifies architectural innovations through its combination of classical Roman elements with early Christian design. The Palatine Chapel's octagonal structure and domed ceiling reflect Byzantine influence, while its overall layout mirrors Roman basilicas. This merging of styles demonstrates Charlemagne's desire to connect his reign with the glory of Rome and to create a distinct identity for his empire during the Carolingian Renaissance.
• Discuss the significance of Aachen Cathedral in the context of royal power and religion during the Carolingian period.
  • Aachen Cathedral served as a potent symbol of royal power and religious authority during the Carolingian period. It was not only a personal chapel for Charlemagne but also the site where many Holy Roman Emperors were crowned, linking their legitimacy to divine sanction. The cathedral's role as a pilgrimage destination for relics further solidified its importance as a spiritual center, reflecting the intertwined relationship between politics and religion in medieval Europe.
• Evaluate how Aachen Cathedral influenced later Romanesque architecture across Europe.
  • Aachen Cathedral set a precedent for later Romanesque architecture by showcasing innovative structural techniques and a blend of artistic influences that would be emulated across Europe. Its design elements, such as the use of ribbed vaults and massive stone walls, influenced subsequent church constructions during the Romanesque period. As a pilgrimage site and royal church, it helped establish norms in ecclesiastical architecture that emphasized grandeur and spiritual significance, shaping how later generations approached church building.

Related terms

Carolingian Renaissance: A cultural and intellectual revival that took place during the reign of Charlemagne in the late 8th and early 9th centuries, emphasizing the importance of education, arts, and architecture.

Ottonian Architecture: The architectural style that developed in Germany during the reigns of the Ottonian dynasty, characterized by basilica-like churches and a revival of Romanesque elements.

Palatine Chapel: The central element of Aachen Cathedral built by Charlemagne, featuring a unique octagonal design inspired by Byzantine architecture.