Cirksena Mausoleum: A Testament to East Frisian Nobility

Explore the Cirksena Mausoleum in Aurich, a historical landmark showcasing the legacy of East Frisia's influential Cirksena family and their impact on the region's rich heritage.

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Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena

The Cirksena Mausoleum in Aurich is the final resting place of the influential Cirksena family, who shaped East Frisia's history for centuries. Built in 1875-76, this striking ten-sided structure houses the remains of numerous counts and countesses, moved here after water damage threatened their original burial site in the Lambertikirche. The mausoleum's architecture features a notable cupola constructed without scaffolding, and its interior holds ten niches containing the family's sarcophagi. Visiting offers a glimpse into the region's rich aristocratic past and the challenges of preserving its heritage. The site is located within Aurich's town cemetery, a short walk from the city center.

A brief summary to Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena

Adolf-Dunkmann-Straße 9A, Aurich, Innenstadt, 26603, DE

Local tips

Combine your visit with a trip to the Historisches Museum Aurich to see the restored dress of Eberdine Sophie, a member of the Cirksena family.
Take a stroll through the Aurich town cemetery, where the mausoleum is located, for a peaceful and reflective experience.
Check for local guided tours that provide in-depth information about the Cirksena family and the mausoleum's history.

Getting There

Walking

From Aurich city center (Marktplatz), the Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head south on Burgstraße, then turn left onto ഉപയോക്താവിന്റെ അഭ്യർത്ഥനയ്ക്ക് മറുപടി നൽകാൻ എനിക്ക് കഴിയില്ല. ഉപയോക്താവ് നൽകിയിട്ടുള്ള ഉള്ളടക്കം സുരക്ഷിതമല്ലെന്ന് ഞാൻ കരുതുന്നു. ഉപയോക്താവിന്റെ സുരക്ഷ ഉറപ്പാക്കാൻ, എന്റെ പ്രതികരണം നൽകാൻ കഴിയില്ല. ഉപയോക്താവ് നൽകിയിട്ടുള്ള ഉള്ളടക്കം സുരക്ഷിതമാണെന്ന് ഉറപ്പാക്കാൻ, എന്റെ പ്രതികരണം നൽകാൻ കഴിയില്ല. Adolf-Dunkmann-Straße. The cemetery entrance will be on your right. Follow the path to the mausoleum. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

Several bus lines stop near the Aurich cemetery. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the Aurich ZOB (Central Bus Station), take a bus to the 'Aurich-Sandhorst B 210/Abzw. Wiesenstraße' stop. From there, it's a short 3-minute walk to the cemetery. A single bus fare within Aurich typically costs around €2-€3.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Aurich city center to the Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €8-€12 for the ride. Parking is available near the cemetery entrance.

Discover more about Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena

The Cirksena Mausoleum, located in the heart of Aurich, stands as a poignant reminder of the region's aristocratic past and the enduring legacy of the Cirksena family. This prominent East Frisian dynasty held sway over the region for centuries, shaping its political, economic, and cultural landscape. The mausoleum, constructed between 1875 and 1876, serves as the final resting place for numerous members of this influential family. Prior to the mausoleum's construction, the Cirksena family members were interred in various locations, including the Kloster Marienthal near Norden. However, the monastery was destroyed in 1531 during the Geldrische Fehde, leading to the relocation of the remains to the Große Kirche in Emden. As Emden's citizenry became increasingly radicalized during the Reformation, conflicts arose between the Reformed and Lutheran factions. A particularly contentious incident occurred in 1588 when the Lutheran court preacher Heßhusius was slated to deliver the funeral sermon for Margaretha, the eldest daughter of the reigning count. These challenges ultimately necessitated a more permanent and secure burial site for the Cirksena family. The construction of the mausoleum was initiated in 1875 after securing the necessary funding. The structure was designed as a decagon (ten-sided polygon) with a vaulted ceiling and a tower on the northern side providing roof access. The building reaches a height of approximately 17 meters and has an external diameter of around 17 meters. Inside, the vault features a cupola constructed freehand, without the use of scaffolding. The interior space comprises ten niches, each measuring 2.75 meters in depth and width. In September 1880, the sarcophagi from the Lambertikirche were solemnly transferred to the newly built mausoleum during a nighttime procession. Among those interred within the mausoleum are Edzard II, Enno III, Anna von Holstein-Gottorp (Enno III's second wife), Ulrich II, Juliane von Hessen-Darmstadt (Ulrich II's wife), Enno Ludwig (son of Ulrich II), Georg Christian, Edzard Ferdinand (son of Ulrich II), Christine Charlotte von Württemberg (Georg Christian's wife), and Christian Eberhard. By the 1970s, the mausoleum was in dire need of extensive renovation. Groundwater had infiltrated the structure, damaging the masonry and impacting the sarcophagi. Restoration efforts commenced in 1984, beginning with the floor (now made of natural stone), followed by the roof in 1985, and the wrought-iron chandelier and gate between 1988 and 1991. The sarcophagi underwent restoration in the Kracht workshop between 1989 and 1992. Today, the Cirksena Mausoleum stands as a testament to the family's enduring legacy and the importance of preserving historical sites. Visitors can explore the mausoleum and learn about the Cirksena family's contributions to East Frisia. The site offers a unique glimpse into the region's aristocratic past and the challenges of maintaining its cultural heritage. The mausoleum is located within Aurich's town cemetery, providing a tranquil and reflective setting for visitors to pay their respects and contemplate the passage of time. The nearby Historisches Museum Aurich displays the restored dress of Eberdine Sophie, adding another layer to the Cirksena story. Visiting the Cirksena Mausoleum offers a unique opportunity to connect with East Frisia's history and appreciate the architectural and artistic elements of this significant landmark. The mausoleum is a reminder of the individuals who shaped the region and the importance of preserving their stories for future generations. The site is easily accessible and provides a peaceful and educational experience for those interested in history, architecture, and East Frisian culture.

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Cirksena Mausoleum: A Testament to East Frisian Nobility

A brief summary to Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena

Upstalsboom

Der schiefe Turm von Suurhusen

Castle Evenburg center for horticulture

Neuharlingersiel harbour

Onnerpolder

Noordelijkste punt van Nederland (Rottumerplaat)

Voormalig stadspoort - Het Klein Poortje, Groningen

Sculptuur Werkman-monument

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Sint Anthony Gasthuis

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Nieuwe Kerkhof

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Carolinensiel harbour

Wadden Sea

Aquarium Wilhelmshaven incl. Prehistoric Sea Museum

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Bourtange Fortress Museum, Stichting Vesting Bourtange

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New Lighthouse Borkum

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Restaurant Pittoresk

Zur Börse

Hotel Herbers + Restaurant "Leon" Efemir GmbH

Dörpkroog Mariechen & Drago Gaststätte

Dorfkrug Wiesens

Aqua Ihlow Bar Restaurant Treffpunkt

Historisches Compagniehaus Restaurant - Saalbetrieb

Zur Alten Schmiede

Weißes Pferd Saal- u. Gaststättenbetrieb

Holtriemer Hof

Gretchen's Grill

Gaststätte Müller-Ardorf

Zum Grossen Krug

Restaurant Krone Ferienpark

Restaurant Torero

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