An unusual crypt beneath the cathedral's southern tower where the unusually dry air naturally mummified several bodies, eight of which, including a Swedish countess and a soldier, are displayed in glass-topped coffins.
The Bleikeller, or Lead Cellar, occupies a low vaulted crypt beneath the cathedral's southern tower, named for the lead sheeting once stored there for roof repairs. Unusually dry, stable air in the chamber naturally mummified bodies placed there over the centuries rather than allowing them to decompose, a phenomenon first noted when the crypt was reopened in the 17th century. Eight mummified figures are displayed today in glass-topped coffins, including a Swedish countess whose fine clothing survived alongside her remains, an unidentified soldier believed to date from the Napoleonic era, and a bricklayer who reportedly fell to his death during the cathedral's construction. Information panels beside each coffin explain what is known and unknown about the individuals, since most identities remain uncertain. A visit takes 20-30 minutes, enough time to read the panels and view each coffin at a measured pace; the chamber is small and can feel crowded if a tour group arrives at the same time, so weekday afternoons tend to be quieter than weekend mornings. The atmosphere is deliberately subdued rather than sensational, with dim lighting suited to the crypt setting; visitors sensitive to human remains on display may prefer to skip this stop while still visiting the cathedral above.
| Admission | Adult €5 (approx $5.40); combined with Dom Turm €8 (approx $8.65) · Child €3 ages 6-18 (approx $3.25); combined €4 (approx $4.30) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Wed-Sun 11AM-5PM |
| Typical visit | 20-30 minutes |
| Best time | Weekday afternoons when it is least crowded |
| Getting there | Enter from the cathedral's south side on the Marktplatz, central Bremen |
| Address | Sandstrasse 10-12, 28195 Bremen, Germany |
Weather through the year in Bremen
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Bremen.
Location
Sandstrasse 10-12, 28195 Bremen, Germany
53.0763, 8.8077 View on map
Highlights
- Eight naturally mummified bodies preserved by the crypt's dry air
- Displayed remains include a Swedish countess and a presumed Napoleonic-era soldier
- Rare surviving example of a European lead cellar burial vault
- Information panels detailing the mystery around each mummy's identity
- Combined ticket available with the Dom Turm tower climb
Tips for visiting
- Buy the combined ticket with the Dom Turm tower to save over separate admission
- Visit on a weekday afternoon for the smallest crowds in the narrow chamber
- The crypt is dim and cool year-round, so a light layer is useful even in summer
- Allow extra time to read the identification panels beside each coffin
- This stop may not suit visitors uncomfortable with viewing human remains
When to visit
Weekday afternoons are quietest, since the small chamber fills quickly when a tour group or weekend crowd arrives.
Accessibility
The crypt is reached by a stairway with no elevator access, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend 20-30 minutes in the crypt reading the panels and viewing the coffins.
Is it worth it for kids?
The exhibit can be unsettling for younger children given the mummified remains on display; it suits older children and adults with an interest in history.
Is photography allowed?
Photography rules are posted at the entrance and have varied over time, so visitors should check current signage on arrival.