Crypt

Overview

Deep beneath the venerable stones of Frankfurt Cathedral, officially known as the Imperial Cathedral of Saint Bartholomew, lies a rarely seen layer of history: its ancient foundations and archaeological findings, often referred to collectively as the 'Crypt'. While not a traditional crypt in the sense of a burial vault, this subterranean realm provides a profound glimpse into the earliest origins of Frankfurt and the site upon which the magnificent Gothic cathedral now stands. It's a place where the echoes of Merovingian and Carolingian eras resonate, predating the visible grandeur of the main church. The archaeological discoveries made here illuminate the continuous human presence and spiritual significance of this ground for over a millennium, offering a unique perspective on the city's rich past.

This historical sub-spot, primarily interpreted and presented through the Dommuseum Frankfurt, unveils a narrative spanning from early medieval royal courts to the powerful collegiate church that shaped the Holy Roman Empire. The museum, nestled within the Gothic cloister of the cathedral, safeguards and exhibits the precious artifacts unearthed from these deep historical layers.

History & Cultural Background

The history of the Frankfurt Cathedral site stretches back far beyond its Gothic facade. The earliest known structure here was a small chapel, part of a Merovingian royal court, established around 680 CE. This chapel marked a nascent center of power and belief, long before Frankfurt rose to prominence as an imperial city. By the early 9th century, under Louis the Pious, son of Charlemagne, a royal palace (Pfalz) was built, replacing the earlier Merovingian court. The foundations of this palace can still be observed as an excavation site adjacent to the cathedral, a testament to its Carolingian heritage.

A pivotal discovery was made in 1991 during excavations beneath the cathedral: the grave of two children, dating back to approximately 700 CE. This Merovingian children's grave offers direct evidence of early medieval life and burial practices on this sacred ground. The discovery revealed intricate details about the people who inhabited this area during a period often shrouded in mystery. The site of this significant grave is now marked by a floor slab near the entrance of the cathedral nave, subtly indicating the profound history beneath one's feet.

What Makes It Special

What makes this 'Crypt' truly special is its tangible connection to the deep past of Frankfurt and the German lands. It represents one of the earliest identified Christian burial sites in the region and provides invaluable archaeological insights into the Merovingian period. The grave of the two children, often referred to as the 'Frankfurt princess' due to the rich grave goods found, is an extraordinary find. These accompanying artifacts – delicate gold jewelry, glass and clay vessels, small toys, everyday objects, and amulets – offer a rare and intimate glimpse into the material culture and spiritual beliefs of the era.

These archaeological findings are not merely historical footnotes; they are the physical bedrock upon which centuries of imperial power and religious devotion were built. They reveal that the area was a significant settlement and sacred space long before it became the election and coronation church of the Holy Roman Emperors. The continuous habitation and sacred use of this site underscore its profound historical continuity and significance.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The story of the 'Frankfurt princess' resonates deeply with visitors. Though her identity remains unknown, the rich artifacts buried with her suggest a child of importance, perhaps royalty or nobility from the Merovingian court. Her grave goods, particularly the golden jewelry, hint at a life of privilege and the customs of burying the deceased with items for the afterlife. This discovery connects us personally to individuals from over a millennium ago, transforming abstract history into a poignant human story.

The preservation of such delicate items through centuries of construction and conflict is itself remarkable. These finds also shed light on the transition from pagan to early Christian burial rites, where ancient traditions of grave offerings slowly merged with new religious beliefs. The Dommuseum Frankfurttells these stories, bringing the past to life through carefully preserved exhibits and contextual information.

Visitor Perspective

For the curious traveler, exploring the 'Crypt' means embarking on a journey through time. While you won't descend into an open crypt in the traditional sense, the Dommuseum Frankfurt, located in the cathedral's cloister, serves as the primary gateway to these ancient discoveries. Here, you can view the actual artifacts unearthed from the Merovingian children's grave and other early medieval finds, presented with meticulous care.

Within the cathedral itself, a floor slab discreetly marks the location where the children's grave was found, allowing visitors to stand directly above this immensely historical spot. This offers a powerful moment of reflection, connecting you directly to the earliest inhabitants of this significant site. The museum's comprehensive exhibits, from liturgical treasures to archaeological finds, collectively paint a vivid picture of the cathedral's unparalleled history, spanning from its Merovingian origins to its role in the Holy Roman Empire.