searchMenu
For almost 2,000 years, monarchies were the predominant form of government in Europe and determined the fate of their sometimes gigantic territories. Today's Germany was no exception and entered a new historical era in 800 AD with the establishment of a new empire in western, Latin Europe by Emperor Charlemagne. The regions along the Rhine also played a prominent role in the new empire, becoming the heartlands of the empire and with them the cities of Basel and Strasbourg, Worms and Speyer, Mainz and Frankfurt, Metz and Trier, Aachen and Cologne.
In Rheinhessen, you can discover impressive artefacts from the imperial era that can tell breathtaking stories as stone witnesses to history. Go in search of clues in Ingelheim through the Imperial Palace and learn exciting facts about the role of the town in the time of Emperor Charlemagne or experience the fascinating atmosphere in two of the oldest cathedrals on the Rhine in the imperial cathedrals in Mainz and Worms.
More than 1,200 years have passed since Emperor Charlemagne commissioned the construction of his imposing imperial palace and the magnificent building still dominates the face of the town of Ingelheim today. Extensive excavations and reconstructions show the dimensions of the palace and make it possible to experience the historical monument to this day. On a guided tour or on your own, you can learn lots of exciting and interesting facts about the imperial palace.
One of the top sights that brings the imperial era to life in Rheinhessen is the former imperial palace, which was built in the 8th century for Charlemagne in today's Nieder-Ingelheim district. Until the 14th century, the imperial palace was the residence and seat of government of emperors and kings, making Ingelheim an important place in world history. Impressive remains of the once imposing building have been preserved above ground to this day and, together with the excavations of the underground foundations, allow an exciting reconstruction of what was once one of the 'most magnificent palaces'.
The cities of Mainz and Worms host two very special witnesses to the glorious history of Rheinhessen - the Romanesque imperial cathedrals St. Martin in Mainz and St. Peter in Worms!
These two architectural masterpieces not only symbolize the identity of their respective cities like few others but also have a unique connection to the imperial history of the Holy Roman Empire. Erected on the orders of the Roman-German emperors, these imposing cathedrals served as symbols of power and legitimacy, reflecting the complex history and close intertwining of religious and political power during that time.
Located in the heart of the Rhineland-Palatinate state capital, you will find the imposing St. Martin's Cathedral in Mainz. Its towers tower high above the Mainz market square, making it not only a popular meeting point and landmark when strolling through the city, but has also helped Mainz residents to identify with their city for centuries. During a visit to the city, you can see the breathtaking size of the cathedral for yourself.
During a visit to Worms, a detour to the St. Peter's Cathedral is a must. Situated at the highest point of the city center, this impressive structure was built in the 11th century and its towers serve as a guiding landmark for visitors and locals alike. Today, just like in the past, the cathedral remains a central hub of Worms, where life thrives, commerce takes place, justice is administered, and faith is made visible. Additionally, it annually provides the backdrop for the spectacular Nibelungen Festival.