Frankfurter Dom (Cathedral)

Overview

The Frankfurter Dom (St. Bartholomew's Cathedral) is a 14th-century Gothic church where Holy Roman Emperors were elected and later crowned. Despite never being a bishop's seat, it is called a 'Dom' (cathedral) due to its imperial significance.

Highlights

• Imperial History: Ten Holy Roman Emperors were crowned in this church between 1562 and 1792.
• The Tower: A 95-meter tower climbable via 328 steps for panoramic city views.
• Wahlkapelle: The 15th-century Election Chapel where the seven Electors chose the Emperor.

History

Built between the 13th and 15th centuries on the site of a Carolingian church, the Dom served as the election church for the Holy Roman Emperor from 1356. The original medieval interior was destroyed in the 1867 fire and the 1944 bombing, then reconstructed.

Visitor Tips

• Tower Climb: 328 steps with views rivaling Main Tower — and it's cheaper.
• Free Entry: The church is free; the tower costs a small fee.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.