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Cologne Cathedral
Nordrhein-Westfalen
Cologne Cathedral, officially known as the High Cathedral Church at Cologne, is a monumental Catholic cathedral located in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia. It serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne and the administration of the Archdiocese. Construction began in 1248, but was halted around 1560; it resumed in the 19th century and was completed in 1880 following the original medieval plans. The cathedral is renowned for its impressive Gothic architecture, featuring the tallest twin spires in the world at 157 meters high, making it the tallest cathedral globally and the third tallest church in Europe. It houses the revered relics of the Three Kings, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The cathedral's façade is the largest of any church worldwide. Beyond its architectural grandeur, it stands as a symbol of German Catholicism and resilience, especially noted for surviving World War II bombings relatively unscathed amidst widespread destruction. Today, it attracts around six million visitors annually, making it Germany's most visited landmark. The cathedral also features a baptistry dating back to the 5th century and has historical continuity from earlier Christian worship sites dating back to the 3rd century in Cologne. Its harmonious and balanced design has been praised by art historians as a "perfect cathedral."
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during weekdays and outside major holidays to avoid crowds. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended, especially for the popular tower climb and the cathedral treasury. Visitors can attend daily services or special concerts, such as the 'Geistliche Musik am Dreikönigenschrein' series. Discounts are often available for groups, students, and seniors. Check the official website for current opening hours, events, and any security guidelines before your visit.
Interesting facts
- •Cologne Cathedral is the tallest twin-spired church in the world at 157 meters.
- •It took over 600 years to complete, from 1248 to 1880.
- •The cathedral houses the relics of the Three Kings, making it a major pilgrimage site.
- •During World War II, the cathedral remained largely undamaged despite heavy bombing in Cologne.
- •Its façade is the largest of any church worldwide.
- •The cathedral was the tallest building in the world upon completion in 1880, surpassing all other structures at that time.
History
The site of Cologne Cathedral has been a place of Christian worship since at least the 3rd century, initially in private homes and later in early churches built during Roman and Merovingian times.
The current Gothic cathedral's construction began in 1248 under Master Gerhard but was halted around 1560 due to funding issues.
Construction resumed in the 19th century, led by architects like Ernst Friedrich Zwirner, and was completed in 1880, adhering closely to the original medieval design.
The cathedral survived World War II largely intact, becoming a symbol of hope amid the devastated city.
It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, recognizing its architectural and cultural significance.
Place Guide
South Tower and Tower Climb
The South Tower offers panoramic views of Cologne and the Rhine River. Visitors can climb 533 steps to the top, experiencing the cathedral's intricate Gothic architecture up close along the way.
Shrine of the Three Kings12th century
A magnificent gilded reliquary believed to contain the bones of the Biblical Magi, the Three Wise Men. It is a focal point of pilgrimage and is housed in the cathedral's choir.
Cathedral Treasury (Domschatzkammer)
The treasury exhibits a rich collection of religious artifacts, including medieval manuscripts, reliquaries, and liturgical objects that reflect the cathedral's long history and religious significance.
The Nave and Stained Glass Windows13th to 14th century
The nave is a vast, soaring space filled with intricate Gothic details and magnificent stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes and saints, bathing the interior in colorful light.
Baptistry and Piscina5th century
Located at the base of the cathedral, the baptismal piscina is the oldest evidence of Christian worship in Cologne, dating back to the 5th century, originally part of a Roman residential house converted for early Christian rites.
Contact
Phone: 0221 92584730
