Hildesheim, a jewel of Lower Saxony, was a destination I visited during a recent tour of Germany. Its rich historical heritage and beautiful Market Square are just two of the many reasons to explore this city. Personally, I was drawn here to verify if the city is as picturesque as it appears in Instagram photos. That was the first reason; secondly, I wanted to visit.
Now, I can confidently affirm that this is a city worth spending time in. In this post, I will highlight what to see in Hildesheim.
Table of Contents
Hildesheim Cathedral (Hildesheimer Dom)
The first cathedral in Hildesheim was erected in 872. The cathedral that stands today is based on its foundations and is one of the city’s most significant monuments. Alongside St. Michael’s Church, it is among the most important early Romanesque buildings in both the city and Germany, and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During World War II, on March 22, 1945, the cathedral was completely destroyed in air raids conducted by units of the British RAF Bomber Command and the Canadian Air Force. It was later reconstructed in a simplified form. Today, it is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Germany, housing notable medieval relics. It features renowned bronze castings from the time of Bishop Bernward (993-1022), such as the Bernward Column and the Romanesque baptismal font from 1225.
Thousand-Year-Old Rose
The Thousand-Year-Old Rose of Hildesheim is a unique symbol of the city. It can be found in the cemetery adjacent to the cathedral. There are fascinating legends tied to it, associated with the cathedral and Ludwig the Pious, the emperor at the time. Interestingly, the rose was burnt during the bombing raid previously mentioned. However, eight weeks later, the rose bush produced 25 new shoots.
Is this rose truly a thousand years old? According to research, it is likely at least 700 years old. I believe its existence is a reminder of the resilience of nature and invites us to contemplate the passage of time.
St. Michael’s Church
Construction of this UNESCO World Heritage Church began in 993 and was completed by 1033. St. Michael’s Church is considered the oldest pre-Romanesque church. The painted wooden ceiling is unique and globally renowned. Despite the church being rededicated by Protestants, it continues to serve as a Catholic place of worship.
Historic Market Square in Hildesheim
Hildesheim’s Market Square, the city’s heartbeat, features the town hall and a beautiful fountain. It is termed the “historic market” due to its significant past. In March 1945, a catastrophic bombing destroyed almost all of the city’s buildings. Only the town hall, fountain, and Tempelhaus (temple house) remained. The other structures were destroyed, and what we see today is an impressively executed reconstruction.
The Market Square is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and stores. Its most renowned features include:
- Wedekind House
- Knochenhaueramtshaus, or the former butcher’s guild hall
- Bäckeramtshaus, or the former baker’s guild hall
- The Roland Fountain, known as the market fountain
Old Town (Altstadt)
Hildesheim’s Old Town is filled with historic half-timbered buildings, most of which have been beautifully restored. Many of these were rebuilt after World War II. Specifically, the bombing nearly obliterated Hildesheim’s Old Town, with only 200 of the 1,500 half-timbered houses surviving.
Interestingly, more old half-timbered houses are preserved in other parts of the city, especially in the New Town (Neustadt). Take a stroll along Kesslerstraße; the combination of half-timbered structures and roses climbing up the facades is particularly striking in the summer.
Roemer and Pelizaeus Museum
The Roemer and Pelizaeus Museum in Hildesheim is famed for its extensive collection of Egyptian art and archaeological exhibits. It houses a massive collection of Chinese porcelain. The Egyptian collection at the Roemer and Pelizaeus Museum comprises nearly 9,000 artifacts spanning various eras and covering over 5,000 years of history. This museum, along with those in Cairo and Boston, is a crucial resource for researchers studying pyramids.
Where to Stay in Hildesheim?
If you’re searching for accommodation in Hildesheim, you’ll find a variety of options. This city of over 100,000 residents has hotels, guesthouses, and apartments that cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Be sure to book in advance, particularly during the summer or during city events like the Mera Luna Festival.
You can find recommended accommodations here or on the map below.
Booking.comWhat to See in Hildesheim?
I have visited Hildesheim briefly, witnessing the most famous sites. You can also ascend the tower of the country’s tallest Gothic church, St. Andrew’s. After climbing 364 steps, you will be rewarded with a view of the city’s landmarks and the entire region from a height of 75 meters.
And, of course, that’s not all. What other attractions are worth visiting? For instance:
- Bismarck Tower
- Steuerwald Castle
- Kehrwiederturm defensive tower
Attractions of Hildesheim
What is there to see in Hildesheim? The city’s ambiance is shaped by a beautiful mix of historical sites. Two UNESCO monuments, the Cathedral and St. Michael’s Church, are true masterpieces of Romanesque architecture. The half-timbered houses add to the charm and are incredibly photogenic. Moreover, the city’s atmosphere is impressive. Beyond what I’ve listed, it’s worth exploring the region (Lower Saxony) and its picturesque surroundings, such as Marienburg Castle or the gardens of Herrenhausen.
If you’re in the area, don’t miss this town.
For more travel inspiration in Germany:
Saxony-Anhalt: Must-See Attractions You Can’t Miss
Wernigerode: Unveiling the Fairy Tale Beauty of Germany’s Hidden Gem!
Things To Do In Quedlinburg – Tips for a Day Trip
Exploring Lübeck: A Gem of Medieval Architecture and Cultural Heritage
