Gazing up, how many steps do you think it takes to reach the top of Domberg? Seventy steps rise from Domplatz to this unique architectural ensemble. Erfurt Cathedral and St. Severus Church stand side by side. Their six towers are Erfurt’s landmark.
Domberg, once called Unterberg, is the last offshoot of the Alach Heights. St. Mary’s Cathedral on Domberg was first documented in 1117. Documents also mention an older Paulskloster and a castle of the Mainz Archbishop. These stood on or near Domberg. The military significance soon shifted to the neighboring Petersberg Citadel.
St. Mary’s Cathedral is where Martin Luther attended theological lectures. He studied here from 1507 to 1511. Luther was ordained as a priest in this very cathedral. He also gave his inaugural lecture here.
The cathedral’s Gothic choir-loft windows are a highlight. Notice the extensive choir stalls from the 14th century. Admire the Romanesque sculptures of an enthroned Madonna. A monumental candle holder also graces the interior.
The “Gloriosa” bell is world-famous. It is the world’s largest free-swinging medieval bell. Its diameter is 2.56 meters. The bell was cast in 1497.
Next to the cathedral is St. Severus Church. It is an early Gothic hall church with five naves. It once served as the collegiate church for Augustinian canons. Inside, find the sarcophagus of St. Severus. A 15-meter-high baptismal font stands here too. An alabaster relief portrays the Archangel Michael.
St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. Severus Church stand together. They are meant to be a place of peace. This is for Christians and non-Christians alike. The two churches tower over Domplatz. They shape Erfurt’s wonderful cityscape.
The two large churches celebrate the ecumenical St. Martin’s Festival. This happens every year on November 10. Thousands of children gather on Domplatz with lanterns. They transform the square into a sea of lights. Bakeries and cafes offer the popular “Martinshörnchen”. This sweet croissant is available only on this day. Before the festival, the “Gloriosa” bell rings out. Its sound is rare and incomparable. This tradition honors St. Martin of Tours and Martin Luther.
In summer, the Domstufen-Festspiele takes place. The steps between the two churches become a stage. Operas and musical theater are performed. This special atmosphere attracts thousands of visitors.
The cathedral’s high Gothic choir is impressive. It sits above a fortress-like substructure. This is known as the Kavaten. The Gothic presbytery provides a good view. It dates back to the 14th century. The choir and transepts were built in the mid-14th century. They showcase a pure High Gothic style. The decorated triangular porch was added soon after.
Inside the cathedral, admire the Gothic decorations. The 14th- and 15th-century stained glass windows are impressive. Take note of the Gothic choir stalls from 1370. Look for “Wolfram”, a Romanesque bronze candelabra. The stucco altar depicts The Enthroned Madonna with Saints. It dates back to the mid-12th century.
In the nave, see the altar of The Madonna and Child. It features SS Catherine and Barbara by Lucas Cranach. Also of note is the tomb of the Count of Gleichen. He supposedly had two wives.
Erfurt Cathedral is more than just a building. It is a symbol of Erfurt’s history. It is a place of faith. It is a stage for culture. Its bells call to us. Its stones whisper stories.