The inclusion of Naumburg cathedral on the list of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites in 2018 attracted visitors from a wider range of countries to the town. “The visitors have become more international. We have noticed that our guests are increasingly coming to us from the Netherlands, the UK and Poland,” says Matthias Albrecht.

Cyclists in particular enjoy visiting the region around the Saale and Unstrut rivers. Steep terraces, old dry stone walls, romantic houses set in vineyards and picturesque river valleys characterise the area, which is also known as the Tuscany of the North.
But visitors come to Naumburg cathedral primarily because of the woman whose proud and graceful features have made her famous throughout the world. This is Uta of Naumburg, one of the twelve founder figures in the west choir of the cathedral. The Uta figure shows no outward signs of emotion. She represents mastery of the world of feelings and therefore perfectly embodies the role of the aristocracy in the Middle Ages. Her image has fascinated and inspired people for centuries. Walt Disney used her as the model for the wicked queen in the film Snow White. And the famous author Umberto Eco was also captivated by her charisma.

“The appeal lies in the broad spectrum of artworks from medieval through to modern”

But Naumburg cathedral has much more to offer. “Uta is definitely the reason why many people visit. But the 150,000 or so visitors who come here every year have the chance to experience much more. The appeal lies in the broad spectrum of artworks from medieval through to modern,” says Kirsten Reichert, head of the visitor service at Naumburg cathedral. It is not only Uta herself who is shrouded in mystery, but also the creator of the founder figures. His name is unknown, which is why he is simply referred to as the Naumburg Master. He designed the west choir in Naumburg in the 13th century and his work, with its unique combination of architecture, sculpture and glass painting, also impressed the UNESCO World Heritage committee.

Echtzeit - Online Magazin - Ox cheeks, wine and a World Heritage site