Kapelle der Goldenen Madonna: A Glimpse into Medieval Art
Discover the Golden Madonna of Essen, the oldest free-standing sculpture north of the Alps, nestled in a serene chapel within the historic Essen Cathedral, a testament to Ottonian artistry.
The Kapelle der Goldenen Madonna, nestled within Essen Cathedral, is a sanctuary housing a priceless treasure: the Golden Madonna of Essen. This over 1000-year-old sculpture is not only the oldest known sculpture of the Madonna but also the oldest free-standing medieval sculpture north of the Alps. Crafted around 980 AD, during the reign of Abbess Mathilde, the statue is a testament to Ottonian artistry, featuring a wooden core covered in delicate gold leaf. The chapel itself, while relatively simple, provides a reverent setting for this iconic artwork, drawing visitors and pilgrims alike to marvel at its beauty and historical significance. A visit offers a unique opportunity to connect with a tangible piece of medieval history and appreciate the enduring legacy of religious art in the heart of Essen.
A brief summary to Kapelle der Goldenen Madonna
- Essen, Stadtbezirke I, 45127, DE
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a tour of the Essen Cathedral to fully appreciate the historical and architectural context of the Kapelle der Goldenen Madonna.
- Take a moment for quiet reflection in the chapel to fully appreciate the spiritual significance of the Golden Madonna.
- Check the Essen Cathedral's website for service times or special events that may affect access to the chapel.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Essen Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take any tram heading towards the city center (e.g., lines 101, 103, 105, 106, 107, or 109) to the Dom/Hbf stop. From there, it's a short walk (approximately 2 minutes) to the Essen Cathedral. The Kapelle der Goldenen Madonna is located inside the cathedral. A single ticket within Essen (Preisstufe A) costs approximately €2.90.
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Walking
If you are already in Essen city center, the Essen Cathedral is easily reachable on foot. From Willy-Brandt-Platz, walk north towards Burgplatz. The cathedral will be visible, and the walk takes about 5-10 minutes. The Kapelle der Goldenen Madonna is located inside the cathedral.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Essen Hauptbahnhof to the Essen Cathedral will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €8-€12. Ask the driver to drop you off at Burgplatz, right in front of the cathedral.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kapelle der Goldenen Madonna
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