Der Dom zu Speyer

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The Speyer Cathedral is regarded as the crown of all churches and symbolically represents the unity of Christendom. Above the portal of the cathedral is the motto "Ut unum sint," a call for unity that refers to Jesus' high priestly prayer. Built in a time before the division of Christianity, the cathedral stands as a testament to fraternal connectedness and inspires a passionate pursuit of visible unity today. It serves as a monument to former unity and a reminder of the necessary restoration of this unity to remain true to Jesus' legacy. For many, including prominent figures, the cathedral is a place of personal connection and cultural heritage. Dr. Helmut Kohl recounts the profound experiences that state guests, including U.S. presidents and other international leaders, have had during visits to the cathedral. The crypt houses the sarcophagi of eight emperors and kings of the Holy Roman Empire, symbolizing the claim of the Salian dynasty to European supremacy and unity. This unity was only realized in modern times in peace. The cathedral remains a central element of Christian Europe, marking the conclusion of significant political careers.