Bamberg - Cathedral

Since 1007, when Holy Roman Emperor Heinrich II (Henry II) made Bamberg the seat of a diocese, the Bamberg Cathedral ("Bamberger Dom St. Peter und St. Georg") is the seat of the Archbishop of Bamberg.

The first cathedral on this place, founded in 1004 by Heinrich II and named "Heinrichsdom", got consecrated already in 1012. This building got destroyed by fire in 1085. Around 1215 the construction of the building seen here started. It was commisioned by Bishop Eckbert von Andechs-Meranien, brother of Hedwig von Andechs (aka Hedwig of Silesia). The new cathedral was consecrated in 1237.

The "Marienportal", known as well as "Gnadenportal" ("Portal of Grace") was in the early times just like the "Fuerstenportal" only used only by high ranks and for processions during certain celebrations. Today is this portal, placed in the south/western tower the main entrance to the cathedral. It has a highly interesting tympanum - seen next.