As plain and simple
as this throne is, there is something almost magical about it. Everyone
who touches it can sense the spark of medieval power.Charlemagne's
Throne is one of Europe's oldest thrones - older than Edward's Chair in
Westminister Abbey. Unlike King Edward's Chair, which is unaproachable
to the public, you can get up close to Charlemagne's Throne - let your
hand glide over the marble that was carried all the way from Jerusalem
to this cathedral in Aachen (Aix-la-Chapelle).
A
curious throne, because unlike King Edward's Chair, there are no fancy ornaments, precious jewels or gold. Not that they were destroyed or stolen. It was built
like this on purpose. Yes, the coronation chair in which 31 German Kings
were crowned Holy Roman Emperors is missing that expected pomp and glory. At
least until you find out that this throne wasn't built for Charlemagne.
He didn't rule here. It was built for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The marble throne is allegedly made from the steps
of Pilate's Palace, where Jesus dribbled blood all over his floor after being tortured. But more even mystery! You can still see the faint traces of not only Christian graffitti, but pagan as well.
On the right side of the chair, you can obviously see the outline for a
Nine Men's Morris game.
The throne is authentic.
The original wooden construction under it carbon-dates back to the 9th Century.
While it's debateable if the marble really was from Pilate's Palace -
the marble is really all the way from Jerusalem. Even the floor paving
under the throne is original 9th Century. The throne even had a secret
compartment which once housed Saint Stephan's Purse (now located in
Vienna). The arch underneath the throne was for royal subjects to crawl
through, to demonstrate their fealty to the newly crowned Holy Roman
Emperor.
Would would it feel like to be crowned on this throne?
In the sobre atmosphere of this ancient cathedral and its stainglass
windows? Come experience medieval power and travel back to the Days of
Yore.
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