Holiday activity in the autumn holidays at KinderDomusMerseburch

Step into the world of emperors and kings. Our cathedral has seen a lot in its 1000-year history. Children can discover numerous myths and legends, important historical events and true celebrities of the Middle Ages among the ancient walls. In the KinderDomusMerseburch, we go on a fascinating search for clues together during the holidays, encounter thieving ravens, centuries-old magic formulas and the secrets of the cathedral building.

Prior booking via our Visitor Centre is strictly required.

Our places in the KinderDomusMerseburch are primarily reserved for holiday children. Accompanying persons (max. 1 per child) receive discounted admission to Merseburg Cathedral including participation in a public guided tour of the cathedral. They pay only € 9.00 instead of € 12.50.

Dates

21.10.2026 | 10 a.m.
The mystery of the mummified hand
What is an anit-king? In the 11th century, the Merseburg Cathedral was the scene of a thrilling power struggle between Emperor Henry IV and Rudolf of Swabia who was backed by most princes. The anti-king’s precious gravestone at the centre of the cathedral still proves which side the Saxon princes chose. Additionally, the cathedral chapel has been keeping a mysterious mummified hand for centuries. It is attributed to Rudolf of Swabia, who lost his hand in the decisive battle and died shortly after. In a roleplay with medieval costumes, we re-enact the historic struggle and visualise the reasons for this conflict: the dispute between emperor and pope about power and influence over ecclesiastical and secular matters.

28.10.2026 | 10 a.m.
„Music please“
With its almost 5,700 pipes, the magnificent Ladegast organ in the Merseburg Cathedral really is the “Queen of all instruments”. Merseburg’s princes elaborately decorated the cathedral as court church already during the Baroque period. Of course, they could not leave out the organ. But how exactly does such a huge instrument work? How are the pipes supplied with enough air? And what happens when all stops are pulled out? Our children-organ allows us to find out about the functioning and technology of the instrument. Together with you, we want to take a look at the organ’s insides and understand the craftsmanship of past organ builders.