Meissen Weblog

With its imposing spires, Meissen Cathedral dominates the distinctive skyline of this thousand-year-old city by the Elbe. Work on building the pure gothic structure began in around 1250 and was completed in around 1400.

Renowned architects and artists have bequeathed us magnificent achievements that include sculptures in the hight chancel and octagonal chapel from the workshop of the “Naumburg Master”, a completely extant rood-screen and great variety of beautifully fashioned foliated capitals and keystones. With its radiant colours and majestic design, the central window in the chancel is lasting testimony to the skills of 13th to 15th centuries and are avery special experience.

Just how closely intertwined the Cathedral is with the history of the Saxon orinces is evidenced by the intricately fashioned brass tombs in the burial chapel - some modelled on designs by Albrecht Duerer and Lucas Cranach the Elder. The latter produced the altar for the Duke George Chapel. Also from his workshop is the lay altar featuring the Legend of the Cross in front of the rood-screen. This altar supports a crucifix by Johann Joachim Kaendler, surely the most famous shaper of porcelain ever at the Meissen Manufactory.

You will be captivated by the tremendous atmosphere in the now restored building, which is a very rich source of peace and strength.

Public Viewing and Guide Tours

Hours of opening April - October 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
tours from 10 a.m. once a hour
last tour 4.30 p.m.

Hours of opening November - March 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
tours as advertised and by agreement

Special tours on the first Saturday in the month 2 p.m. ( April - November )
Please book in advance for groups

Tours of the Tower

April - October daily at 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m.
and by agreement

Organ Recitals

May - October
Mondays to Saturdays noon to 12.20 a.m.
Special recitals possible as required

Religious Services

Every Sunday at noon
Prayer services every Wednesda at 9 p.m.

Cathedral Concerts

May - October every Saturday at 6 p.m.
(anual listings available)

Hiring

The Cathedral Provostry Cellars offer space for meetings of up to 100 persons and for functions involving up to 80 persons, whilst 30 perons can be accommodated in the Chapter Hall.

address: Meissen Cathedral
pictures Meissen Cathedral