Shum Sites of Speyer Worms and Mainz

ShUM Sites: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Overview

The ShUM (from the first letters in Latin of Speyer, Worms, and Mainz) cities are located in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, and are renowned for their exceptional architectural heritage. These cities boast three of the most significant Romanesque cathedrals in Europe: Speyer Cathedral (Dom St. Peter und Alexander), Worms Cathedral (Dom St. Martin), and Mainz Cathedral (Mainzer Dom). This guide provides a detailed look at each site, along with practical information for visitors.

Speyer Cathedral (Dom St. Peter und Alexander)

History and Architecture

Speyer Cathedral is one of the largest and most important Romanesque buildings in Europe, built between 1030 and 1106. The cathedral was dedicated to Saint Peter and Saint Alexander, early Christian martyrs. It’s notable for its triple-naved basilica design with two transepts, a unique feature among medieval churches.

Points of Interest

  • Imperial Coronation Church: Speyer Cathedral has been the site of 30 imperial coronations and 27 royal burials since the 14th century. Notable burials include Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, King Henry IV, and Queen Kunigunde.
  • Speyer Ripple Experiment: The cathedral hosts an ongoing experiment to preserve the medieval stone floor using a water-filled trough system designed by German engineer Karl Henning Sprengel in 1825.
  • Speyer Art Gallery (Kunsthalle Speyer): Adjacent to the cathedral, this museum showcases exhibitions on art, culture, and history from various periods.

Practical Information

  • Address: Domplatz 1, 67346 Speyer, Germany
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM - 5 PM (April - October); 10 AM - 3 PM (November - March)
  • Admission: Free entry for the cathedral; Kunsthalle Speyer: €8 for adults, reduced prices for students and seniors
  • Website: www.speyer-dom.de

Worms Cathedral (Dom St. Martin)

History and Architecture

Worms Cathedral was founded in the 10th century but underwent significant expansions between the 11th and 13th centuries. The current Romanesque structure dates from the late 12th to early 13th century, although the west portal is Gothic, dating from 1346-56.

Points of Interest

  • Martin’s Chapel (Martinskapelle): Dedicated to St. Martin of Tours, this chapel contains one of the most significant collections of Romanesque sculptures in Germany.
  • Sacrament House (Sakramentshaus): This structure houses a unique Gothic wooden statue of Jesus from the 15th century.
  • Worms Town Museum (Stadtmuseum Worms): Explore the history of Worms, including its role in the Reformation and the life of Martin Luther.

Practical Information

  • Address: Domplatz 10, 67596 Worms, Germany
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM - 5 PM (April - October); 10 AM - 3 PM (November - March)
  • Admission: Free entry for the cathedral; Stadtmuseum Worms: €4 for adults, reduced prices for students and seniors
  • Website: www.worms.de

Mainz Cathedral (Mainzer Dom)

History and Architecture

Mainz Cathedral was first built in the 10th century but rebuilt in the Romanesque style after a fire destroyed the original structure in 1137. The cathedral underwent further transformations during the Gothic period, with the addition of the west choir and towers in the late 15th century.

Points of Interest

  • Mainz Cathedral Museum (Dommuseum Mainz): This museum showcases numerous artifacts from the cathedral’s history, including the Mainz Gospels – the oldest surviving Gospel book in Germany.
  • St. Stephen’s Chapel (Stephanuskapelle): Dedicated to St. Stephen, this chapel contains the tomb of Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV and his wife Elizabeth of Pomerania.
  • Gutenberg Museum: Located nearby, this museum celebrates the life and work of Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press.

Practical Information

  • Address: Domplatz 1, 55116 Mainz, Germany
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM - 5 PM (April - October); 10 AM - 3 PM (November - March)
  • Admission: Free entry for the cathedral; Dommuseum Mainz: €6 for adults, reduced prices for students and seniors
  • Website: www.mainzer-dom.de

Additional Tips for Visitors

  • Combine a visit to these sites with the Rhine River cruise, as they are all easily accessible by boat.
  • Consider purchasing a combination ticket for multiple ShUM sites and museums to save money.
  • Research local events, such as concerts and exhibitions, that may be taking place during your visit.
  • Familiarize yourself with German customs and etiquette to ensure an enjoyable travel experience.

Enjoy your exploration of the remarkable ShUM Sites of Speyer, Worms, and Mainz!