The importance of Emperor Otto the Great for Magdeburg, Germany and Europe can hardly be overestimated. From the beginning of the 10th century onwards, the kings and emperors of the Ottonian dynasty had a significant influence on the new beginning of sovereignty, culture, society and economy in Central Europe – in particular under the reign of Otto the Great, Europe took on a new shape and the foundations of today’s European world of states were laid.

By strengthening and stabilising the union of the East Frankish tribes, he paved the way for the emergence of Germany. The reestablishment of the Roman Empire by Otto the Great gave Europe an essential part of its future structure. The connection between the German royal crown and the Roman imperial dignity, which lasted until the end of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, goes back to Otto’s coronation as emperor in 962. Otto the Great became a decisive pioneer of today’s Europe.

Magdeburg – imperial palace, archiepiscopal metropolis and burial place of the Emperor

The Ottonian territory was Saxony, largely the area of today’s federal state of Saxony-Anhalt. Magdeburg became the centre of Otto the Great’s rule. The town, which was given to the English princess Editha as a morning gift on the occasion of her marriage to Otto the Great in 926, lay on the eastern edge of the empire. With the foundation of the Palatinate and Mauritius Monastery and its elevation to an archbishopric in 968, Magdeburg rose to become the leading centre of power in the 10th century under Otto the Great. The city became widely known and also prosperous with the granting of market, minting and customs rights.

Remarkable for this period is the emperor’s close relationship with his Saxon homeland throughout his life. As there were no residences at the time, Otto the Great exercised his rule primarily through his personal presence. He was constantly travelling with his family and court entourage to the farthest reaches of the empire. Nevertheless, historical sources document numerous visits by the Ottonian ruler to Magdeburg.

Magdeburg’s history is part of the cultural and historical tradition of important European cities. During the construction of the cathedral, the paths of people from all parts of the world crossed here, different cultures met and new ideas were founded.

When Otto I died on 7 May 973, he was buried in the high choir of Magdeburg Cathedral. This is also an expression of his deep connection and love for our city. He is still buried here today in Magdeburg Cathedral with his first wife Editha.

The Emperor Otto Cultural Foundation preserves the memory of Otto the Great and his outstanding achievements for the city of Magdeburg and is committed to his legacy for the preservation of a peaceful and liberal Europe. The awarding of the Emperor Otto Prize is an expression of this commitment.