The buildings follow the designs in the Plan of Saint Gall, the only surviving major architectural drawing from the Middle Ages, and uses as much as possible the materials and methods contemporary to the time of Charlemagne in keeping with goals of experimental archaeology.

Between 20 and 30 staff members are permanently at the site, with an exception according to medieval custom for rest during the winter months from 11 November (St. Martin's day) until 2 April (Charlemagne's birthday).

[4] The project was launched by the Aachen-based journalist Bert Geurten with 1 million euros provided by city, state and European-Union sources.

[5] An Advisory Board of 18 experts in fields including archaeology, history, theology, and veterinary medicine provide the scientific management and monitoring of the construction.

[6] A small area in the forest was cleared by the end of June 2013, and temporary shelters for the craftsmen were built.