Grabmal Kaiser Friedrichs III., Imperial tomb in St. Stephen's Cathedral, Austria.
The tomb of Emperor Frederick III is a monumental work carved from red-brown Adnet marble, situated within St. Stephen's Cathedral. The surface displays intricate sculptural work with numerous figures and decorative details that showcase the craftsmanship of its era.
Sculptor Niclas Gerhaert van Leyden began work on the tomb in 1468, yet the emperor's remains did not arrive at their final resting place until 1513. This lengthy gap between the start of construction and the actual burial was not unusual for such significant imperial monuments.
The tomb displays 240 small statues along its sides, representing the emperor's charitable works and contributions to society during his reign.
The tomb is protected by a stone balustrade that allows a clear view of the recumbent emperor figure dressed in coronation regalia and the carved details surrounding it. The location is inside the cathedral and easily accessible during regular opening hours.
The sarcophagus lid bears the mysterious letter sequence AEIOU alongside the emperor figure, a meaning that scholars continue to debate. This cryptic personal emblem of the emperor appeared in other locations throughout his realm.
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