The Old Court is a magnificent Renaissance building complex on Cathedral Square, originally the palace of Bamberg's prince-bishops. Built on the remains of the 11th-century Castrum Babenberg, the palatinate of Emperor Henry II, it now houses the Historical Museum with exhibits spanning from prehistory to the present day. Highlights include the Beautiful Gate from 1573, the picturesque courtyard with 15th-century half-timbered buildings, and special exhibitions on Jewish life in Bamberg and astronomical instruments. St. Katherine's Chapel within the complex is used for civil wedding ceremonies.