Otto the Great reburied in Magdeburg Cathedral

Emperor Otto the Great is being ceremoniously reburied in the Magdeburg Cathedral following extensive renovations of his tomb. The restoration was necessitated by significant damage to the stone sarcophagus and the original medieval wooden coffin.

During the restoration process, scientists conducted examinations of the remains, gaining new insights into the historical figure. A new sarcophagus, designed by artist Silke Trekel using titanium, fine silver, fine gold, and gold leaf, has been created to house the remains and is intended to last for another 1,000 years.

The reburial ceremony includes an ecumenical service and a formal event featuring a speech by State Minister for Culture and Media Wolfram Weimer. Following the ceremony, the sarcophagus will be sealed with an antique marble slab weighing approximately 300 kilograms. The cathedral will remain open to the public for viewing the site until 18:00.