The Imperial Hall is one of the most beautiful rooms at Heidelberg Castle, and many of the parts are still original. Prince-Elector Ottheinrich had the ceremonial hall built inside the Ottheinrich’s Wing between 1556 and 1559. It was named in honor of Emperor Maximilian II's visit to Heidelberg.
Beautiful sandstone embrasures from the Renaissance.
The two column shafts and the original door frames show how splendidly the Imperial Hall was once decorated. Imaginative sandstone ornaments were carved in the Renaissance style. Edges of a cross vault can still be seen on the ceiling. The original sculptures from the facade of the Ottheinrich’s Wing on display here are also quite impressive. The Flemish sculptor, Alexander Colin (1526–1612), carved them in the mid-16th century.
A favorite romantic spot for newlyweds.
In the 1950s, the second floor of the Ottheinrich’s Wing, which had been burned out in the 18th century, was re-roofed, thus creating a special space in Heidelberg for exhibitions and events. This includes the Imperial Hall with its atmospherically lit figures and ornate sandstone decorations; an exceptional setting for romantic weddings.
This Heidelberg Castle treasure can be viewed as part of a special tour.
