Goslar

Imperial Palace of Goslar: Medieval German Royal History Unveiled

June 24, 2025

Marie Schäfer

I spent nearly three hours exploring the Imperial Palace, fascinated by the St Ulrich Chapel and the Henry Moore sculpture in the gardens. The guided tour provided incredible insights into medieval royal life, and I was particularly struck by the heart of Heinrich III preserved in the chapel.

Where medieval emperors once walked, the Imperial Palace of Goslar holds a heart - literally - with a sarcophagus containing Heinrich III's actual preserved heart. Step into a living medieval landscape where every stone tells a story of power, intrigue, and unexpected historical details.

Need-to-Know Info Before Visiting Imperial Palace of Goslar

Imperial Palace of Goslar Address

Kaiserplatz 1, 38640 Goslar, Lower Saxony, Germany

Imperial Palace of Goslar Opening Hours

  • 🕒 April-October: Daily 10 AM - 6 PM
  • 🕒 November-March: Tuesday-Sunday 10 AM - 4 PM
  • 🕒 Closed on Mondays during winter months

How to get to Imperial Palace of Goslar

  • 🚗 By car: Parking available at Kaiserplatz, direct access from B498
  • 🚌 Public transport: Goslar Train Station, then 10-minute walk
  • 🚕 Rideshare: Uber and local taxi services available

What is Imperial Palace of Goslar known for?

  • 11th-century Romanesque royal palace complex used by Holy Roman Empire emperors
  • Contains St Ulrich Chapel with Heinrich III's heart sarcophagus
  • Features Henry Moore's Goslarer Krieger sculpture in palace gardens
  • Reconstructed historical site showcasing medieval German imperial architecture
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site representing medieval European royal power

What is Imperial Palace of Goslar in Goslar?

The Imperial Palace of Goslar stands as a powerful window into medieval German royal history, drawing history buffs and architecture enthusiasts from across Europe. Tucked in the historic town of Goslar, this reconstructed 11th-century Romanesque palace attracts around 75,000 visitors annually who want to experience a genuine slice of Holy Roman Empire heritage. Tourists can walk through rooms where emperors once made critical decisions, explore intricate interior frescos depicting historical scenes, and discover the remarkable St Ulrich Chapel. The palace grounds include a stunning sculpture garden featuring Henry Moore's Goslarer Krieger (Goslar Warrior), offering visitors a blend of historical architecture and artistic expression. Unlike many static historical sites, this landmark provides guided tours that bring medieval royal life into sharp, tangible focus. Photography enthusiasts particularly appreciate the palace's stone archways, ornate window frames, and the sweeping views of Goslar's historic landscape. Its UNESCO World Heritage status confirms its significant cultural importance, making it more than just another old building - it's a living narrative of Germany's royal past.

Top things to do at Imperial Palace of Goslar

  • Join a guided historical tour revealing the daily life of Holy Roman Empire emperors, with English and German language options available
  • Explore St Ulrich Chapel and see the rare sarcophagus containing Heinrich III's heart, a unique historical artifact rarely seen elsewhere
  • Walk through the reconstructed palace rooms and examine 19th-century interior frescos depicting idealized medieval historical scenes
  • Photograph Henry Moore's Goslarer Krieger sculpture in the palace gardens, a contemporary art piece set against a medieval backdrop
  • Attend seasonal historical reenactment events showcasing medieval royal court practices and traditional German imperial costumes
  • Visit the palace's historical exhibition rooms documenting Goslar's significance during the Holy Roman Empire period, with detailed medieval artifacts and informational displays

Tickets for Imperial Palace of Goslar

Ticket prices range from 8-12 euros depending on age and group size. Discounts available for students, seniors, and children. Online tickets can be purchased through the official Goslar Tourism website, offering a 10% discount. Combined tickets with city museum access are available. Group rates start at 7 euros per person for 10+ visitors. Free entry for children under 6 years old.

History of Imperial Palace of Goslar

  • 1040: Emperor Conrad II begins construction of the royal palace complex
  • 1056: Heinrich III completes major expansions to the palace
  • 1152: Frederick Barbarossa uses Goslar as a key imperial residence
  • 1350: Palace begins gradual decline after losing political importance
  • 1868: First major restoration efforts begin under Prussian historical preservation initiatives
  • 1990: Declared UNESCO World Heritage Site for its medieval imperial significance
  • 2005: Complete architectural restoration of St Ulrich Chapel completed

Cultural Significance

The Imperial Palace represents the political and administrative heart of the Holy Roman Empire during the medieval period. It symbolizes Germany's royal heritage and serves as a critical educational site for understanding medieval European governance. The palace demonstrates the power and architectural sophistication of 11th-century imperial administration, showcasing how royal complexes functioned as both administrative centers and symbolic representations of imperial authority.

Tips for Visitors

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for touring multiple palace rooms
  • Bring a light jacket as interior rooms can be cool
  • Audio guides available in 4 languages (German, English, French, Dutch)
  • Photography permitted in most areas without flash
  • Allow 2-3 hours for a comprehensive palace tour
  • Accessibility ramps available for mobility-impaired visitors
  • Nearby café offers traditional German refreshments

Best Time to Visit

May through September offers the best weather and most comprehensive tour schedule. Summer months (June-August) provide extended opening hours and additional guided tour options. Early morning visits (10-11 AM) typically have smaller crowds. Consider visiting during local historical festivals in July for enhanced cultural experiences.

What are some interesting facts about Imperial Palace of Goslar?

  • The palace contains a rare sarcophagus holding only the heart of Heinrich III, not his entire body - a unique medieval royal burial practice
  • During medieval times, Goslar was so politically important that emperors collected 40% of their imperial taxes from the local silver mining region surrounding the palace
  • The Henry Moore sculpture Goslarer Krieger in the palace gardens was strategically placed to symbolize the transition between medieval royal power and modern artistic interpretation