As I visited Hildesheim in September 2009, the Cathedral of St. Mary's was still open (now closed for renovation until 2014) and at St. Michael the renovation of the interior was already completed, only one outer wall was partly under scaffolding. Both churches are the best examples of early-Romanesque architecture and interior design. The typical elements are visible: thick, fortress-like walls, massive towers, and the typical round arches. In particular St. Michael beautifully illustrates the geometric principles of Romanesque style. In the Second World War both churches were almost completely destroyed and rebuilt in the 1950s. The Baroque ornaments were omitted, and the churches were rebuilt in their presumed original Romanesque style.

A significant part of the WHS is the art treasure from the 11th century: the two-winged bronze door (with depictions of the history of salvation), the Christ column (depicting scenes of Jesus' life), the Hezilo-Candelabrium. As other reviewers, I was impressed by the colourful wooden ceiling in St. Michael. Its effect is even enhanced by the sparse decoration of the interior.

I like to visit medieval cathedrals and monasteries, I like the mood and the atmosphere there. But there are a lot of them on the WH list and sometimes it is hard to understand why a certain cathedral is a World Heritage site and another one is not. The special features in Hildesheim are the pure Romanesque style and the extraordinary art treasures. A visit is worthwhile if you are in the area. The city is easily accessible, it is close to major highways and railway lines.