Collegiate church of St Cyriacus, Gernrode

The collegiate church founded by Margrave Gero in the early 10th century is one of the most impressive monuments on the ‘Romanesque Road’. The absence of right angles within the church reflects mediaeval thinking.

The convent of St. Cyriacus is one of the most important examples of Ottonian architecture. The western part, with its two towers, high central block and apse, was built in the 12th century. In the 11th century, the Holy Tomb was installed in the southern side aisle some time after the church had been built; this is the earliest surviving example in Germany of a copy of Christ’s tomb in Jerusalem. There is a 16th century portrait of the founder, Margrave Gero. The life of Christ is depicted on the octagonal font.

Guided tours daily at 3 pm except Good Friday, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Group tours also possible at other times by arrangement.