Königsberg Dom Cathedral in Kaliningrad

Königsberg Cathedral located on Kant Island, formerly Kneiphof, is the most famous tourist attraction in the city. The Museum of Immanuel Kant is located in the cathedral. There you will be told about the life and work of this great philosopher. A separate museum exposition is devoted to the history of Kneiphof Island. There you can also see a reconstruction of the Vallenrod Library.

The first cathedral was built in Königsberg in 1302. However, the new bishop of the Teutonic Order thought it was not big enough. The construction of a new cathedral began in 1333. It lasted nearly to the end of the century. The cathedral was largely finished and consecrated by 1380. But the cathedral tower was built only in 1553.

Until 1519 it was a Catholic cathedral. In 16 the buildings of the University of Königsberg commonly known as the Albertina were erected on three sides of the cathedral and it became a university church. The Albertina was founded by Duke Albert of Prussia in 1544. 

The famous Vallenrod Library had been kept in the south tower of the cathedral since 1650. Also in 16 century in the cathedral there appeared a burial vault for the professors of the Albertina. Immanuel Kant was the last professor to be buried there on February 12, 1804. And in 1924, by the 200th anniversary of the birth of Kant, a memorial Neo-Gothic portico was erected on the east side of the cathedral where his remains were moved. 

The cathedral was severely damaged during the storm of Königsberg in April 1945. It was in ruins until the 90th of the past century. The grave of Kant saved the cathedral from total destruction but at the end of 20 century it was completely restored and turned into a museum. At the museum you can get to know the creative work of Kant, as well as the history of Königsberg.

You should take note of the organ of Königsberg Cathedral – the biggest organ in Europe. By all means should you visit one of the concerts of organ music, which are given there very day. And it will be even more important for you visit the festival of classic music, which is regularly held in the cathedral.