Hans P. Hilger

Nowhere else has the versatility of medieval furnishings in a large collegiate church been preserved as richly as in Xanten. In addition to the numerous altars, the choir stalls from around 1228, precious wall hangings, sculptures, and stained glass are still in situ, along with the large collegiate library and an archive of rare completeness, as well as reliquaries, vestments, and liturgical and practical equipment. The Gothic structure that integrates the Staufer west choir hall is already worth a visit on its own. The modern crypt and memorial for the victims of the Nazi regime provide insight into the archaeological zone with two graves from the 4th century, including that of St. Martyr Victor. With 112 color and 42 black-and-white images, this affordable volume is exceptionally well-equipped.