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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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.
Essen Minster
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St. Altfrid
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Ein Brunnen auf dem Burgplatz
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Denkmal Wilhelm I. (Deutscher Kaiser)
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Altkatholische Friedenskirche
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Marktkirche
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The ceramic house
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Gartenkunst Louis de Roy
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Essener Weihnachtsmarkt
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Brunnen Fontänengasse
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Hirschlandplatz
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3D Modell der Essener Innenstadt
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Crosses Church
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Hauswand Gemälde Engelbertstraße
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Unmissable attractions to see
Alte Synagoge Essen
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Kennedyplatz
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Glockenspiel
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Essener Willkommensschild
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Wandgemälde
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Günni Semmler Denkmal
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Museum Folkwang
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Platz der Begegnung
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Grafitti-Brückenunterführung
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Grugapark Essen
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Geologisches Profil Durch Das Großessener Gebiet
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Alpinum im Grugapark
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Wasserfall
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Romanisches Haus im Grugapark
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Ruhr Museum
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Essential places to dine
Frittenwerk Essen
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BLOCK HOUSE Essen
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Pfefferkorn Essen
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Leo's Casa
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Limbecker Restaurant
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HANS IM GLÜCK - ESSEN Kennedyplatz
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MA Essen
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L'Osteria Essen Kennedyplatz
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Genki Bar & Restaurant
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sattgrün theaterpassage
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Il Mulino
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Banana Leaf
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Restaurant Kiepenkerl
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DER LÖWE Becker Gastro GmbH
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The ASH Essen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
AppelrathCüpper
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Reserved
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Primark
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OLYMP & HADES
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Oxfam Shop Essen
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Rathaus Galerie Essen
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BRAX Store Essen
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Kadence Store
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NANU-NANA
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EuroShop
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HEMA Amsterdam
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UNIQUE AFRICAN TEXTILES
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Bullet Shopping Center
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Konsumreform Shop - Die Regalvermietung
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The LEGO® Store Essen
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sixthsense-Bar
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Teatro Lounge Bar - Essen
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RazzBar Essen
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Temple Bar
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Zum Pümpchen
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Jimmy's Bar - Essen im Handels Hof Hotel
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Felis
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Don't Panic Club & Pub - Essen
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Panoptikum Gaststätte - Essen
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Lil•Tiger Rooftop Terrace
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Daktari Cocktailbar
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CocktailChef Ruhrgebiet
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Café Goldbar - Essen
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Südrock rock pub - Essen
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School of Drinking - Essen
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Teatro Club Essen
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electronic music club Hotel Shanghai K. e.
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Musikpalette - MUPA
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809 Club - Essen
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Essence
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PM93 Essen
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turock
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Westend Club - Essen
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Goethebunker
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Lucy
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Phönix Club
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Steffys Nightclub
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Alia Club - Bochum
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Prater
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Zeche Bochum
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