Emperor Henry II - A Man of Power and a Saint

To mark the 1000th anniversary of the death of Henry II, "the Saint" (died 13 July 1024), bavarikon is presenting a virtual exhibition on the life and reign of the medieval emperor. Henry II (born 973) reigned as king from 1002 and as emperor from 1014. He established the diocese of Bamberg and enriched it with valuable art and book treasures. Henry and his wife Cunigunde still play a significant role in Bamberg today.

Join us on a journey back in time to the era of the first millennium! In bavarikon you will find, among other things, an exquisite selection of masterpieces of medieval art from the collections bequeathed by Henry II.

Over 30 digital exhibits from 10 archives, libraries and museums in bavarikon bring the intellectual world of the mighty Frankish Empire with its secular and ecclesiastical rulers to life before your eyes. Top works of medieval book art from the influential Benedictine monastery workshops, such as magnificently illustrated and sumptuously bound gospels and pericope books, or the unique Bamberg Apocalypse, invite you to browse, zoom in, and marvel.

Among the Bamberg imperial robes, the legendary gold-embroidered Star Cloak of Henry II, once gifted to him by an Apulian prince, is particularly fascinating. Also noteworthy is the blue Cunigunde Cloak, the oldest surviving liturgical vestment in the world.

You will also learn exciting facts about the historical figure of the "Emperor at the End of Time" (Stefan Weinfurter).

Enjoy our virtual exhibition!