Aachener Dom (Aachen Cathedral), Aachen (must see)

Aachen Cathedral, also known as the Imperial Cathedral, is a true heavyweight in Germany’s lineup of iconic landmarks. Built in the late 8th century at the behest of Charlemagne, this architectural gem earned the honor of becoming the first German site inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1978.

At its core is the magnificent Palatine Chapel, a crowning achievement of Carolingian design that proudly reflects Charlemagne’s lofty dream of crafting a “new Rome” right in the heart of Europe. Inspired by Byzantine influences, the chapel’s octagonal shape is rich with symbolic meaning: eight sides evoke the eighth day and the resurrection of Christ, while recurring multiples of ten embody medieval notions of architectural perfection. Case in point: the dome’s height and the building’s diameter each measure a perfect 100 Carolingian feet. Multiples of ten were considered perfect and complete, so the precise use of 100 feet emphasized divine order and the chapel’s role as a sacred space.

After Charlemagne’s passing, the chapel became his final resting place and soon cemented its status as a centerpiece of medieval power. Between 936 and 1531, no fewer than 31 German kings and 12 queens were crowned in the cathedral, leaving an indelible mark on its legacy as a cornerstone of royal tradition.

The cathedral’s Treasury ranks among Europe’s most revered church treasuries. Inside, you’ll find the Throne of Charlemagne, the four great Aachen relics—including a cloak attributed to the Virgin Mary—and the Pala d’Oro, a dazzling golden altar screen.

As the centuries rolled by, the structure expanded and evolved, blending the strength of Carolingian architecture with the soaring elegance of Gothic design and later additions. The awe-inspiring 13th-century choir hall, with its intricate stained-glass windows, serves as a spectacular counterpoint to the original 8th-century structure.

Today, Aachen Cathedral stands tall as a breathtaking reminder of Charlemagne’s visionary legacy, the unmatched craftsmanship of the Middle Ages, and the enduring beauty of a masterpiece shaped by history.