Karlsschrein

The Karlsschrein (English: Shrine of Charlemagne) in Aachen Cathedral was made in Aachen at the command of Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor and completed in 1215, after Frederick II's grandfather, Frederick Barbarossa had exhumed Charlemagne's bones from their resting place in the Palatine Chapel, Aachen in 1165.

Frederick II personally carried out the transfer of the bones and the sealing of the shrine on 27 July 1215, the first anniversary of the Battle of Bouvines, which had spurred him to seek the German throne. Two days before, he had been crowned again and finally as the King of the Romans at Aachen.

The Shrine is part of the late 12th century shrine tradition. It has the form of a naved church, without a transept. It is an oak box more than two metres long, decorated with gilt silver, gilt copper, filigree, precious stones, enamel and firnisbrand. The double step of the base is adorned with enamel plates, engravings, filigree, and silver stamped with floral designs. The two long sides show an arcade of eight archways resting on double columns, in which the Kings and Emperors of the realm are enthroned.

The front gable end shows Charlemagne enthroned, with Pope Leo III standing to his right and Archbishop Turpin of Rheims to his left. A half-figure of Christ is located in a medaillon above Charlemagne.

On the rear gable end the Madonna with Christ is enthroned between the Archangels Michael and Gabriel. Three half-figures, the personifications of Faith, Hope, and Love, are depicted above.

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