The Salian Dynasty

Power in Transition

“A tale to be told spun too far”, wrote the archivist Ekkehard of Aura. He was referring to the turbulent events of the year, 1111. In Rome, Henry V, the last of the Salian rulers had taken Pope Paschal II prisoner and forced him to crown him emperor. In that same year, the emperor bestowed significant privileges on the citizens of Speyer, which laid the foundation for its development into a Free Imperial City. The relationship of the Salian emperors to the Bishopric of Speyer was truly remarkable as together, they erected what was then the largest church in western Christendom and here, they allowed themselves to be laid to rest when they died.
In 2011, the “miraculously consummated” imperial Cathedral, “deserving of praise and admiration” (citations from the memoir of Henry IV at the beginning of the 12th Century) will celebrate the 950th anniversary of its consecration.
These three anniversaries are the reason for “The Salian Dynasty: Power in Transition”, a great exhibition of the art and cultural history of the Middle Ages. It promises to be the highpoint of the “Year of the Salians-2011”. Unique precious items, treasures of book and ivory artistry, as well as archaeological finds will bring the 11th and start of the 12th centuries in its many facets to life in Speyer from April 10 until October 30, 2011. Elaborate productions, virtual architectural reconstructions, and exciting audio exhibits will actively draw the visitor into the exhibition.
Two richly illustrated volumes (320 pages each) with a number of contributions by famous scholars will be published on the occasion of the exhibition. They are priced at €24.90 for each volume or €39.90 for both.
Order by phone at 0049 (0)6232 620222 or on the Internet at www.salierjahr.de.
Historical Museum of the Palatinate in Speyer
Domplatz 4
67346 Speyer, Germany
Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm
www.museum.speyer.de