Cologne Cathedral has always been a favorite haunt for globe-trotters and is one of the most frequently visited tourist attractions in Germany. Cologne Cathedral is a fine reflection of Gothic architecture. The awe-inspiring architecture will remind you of a past which was rich in culture and traditions. The two mighty spires of the Cologne Cathedral are visible from a long distance and dominate the city’s skyline.
The height of each of the two spires is around 157 meters. The Cologne Cathedral or Kölner Dom is one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the whole of Europe and holds the record of having the world’s biggest church facade.
The building of the Cologne Cathedral, Germany, was started in the year 1248 following the Gothic style of France. The work of the building was suspended shortly after it was started because of lack of funds. The half-finished structure was left as it is for around 300 years and it became almost a haunted place. It was demoted to a prison during the rule of Napoleon when his troops occupied the cathedral. Later, King Friedrich Wilhelm IV of Prussia gave a generous donation for the re-construction of the Cologne Cathedral and by the year 1880 the work was completed. After completion, the Cologne Cathedral, Germany, became one of the famous Germany tourist attractions and was the world’s tallest building. But the Washington Monument which was built in 1884 took away the title of being the tallest building in the world from the Cologne Cathedral.
The Cologne Cathedral, Germany, is still regarded as the biggest Gothic building of the world and is famous for its monumental wooden Gero cross, the stained glass windows which are very colorful, and the relics of the Three Kings kept in the shrine. The Shrine of the Three Magi has made it one of the famous pilgrimage destinations of Germany.
Cologne Cathedral Location Map
Facts about Cologne Cathedral
- The reason for constructing the Cologne Cathedral was to house the shrine of the Three Wise Men.
- The Cologne Cathedral became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.
- Although the cathedral was hit by 14 bombs during the World War II, yet the building did not collapse.
Where is Cologne Cathedral ?
The Cologne Cathedral is located in Cologne, the fourth largest city in Germany. You can reach the church within 15 minutes from the Cologne Bonn Airport.
Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Germany
Best time to visit Cologne Cathedral
The Cologne Cathedral looks best in the sunlight. Visiting Germany during Christmas can be a great experience as during December a famous Christmas market is held near the cathedral.
Cologne Cathedral Hours
The cathedral opens daily from 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. during November to April and from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. during May through October. Timings on sundays and holidays are from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Cologne Cathedral Tickets
Admission to the Cologne Cathedral is free. For entry in the Cathedral treasury, a fee of €4.00 is charged.
More about Cologne Cathedral
Nearby Attractions: Roman-Germanic Museum, Weihnachtsmarkt Kölner Altstadt, Minoritenkirche, Museum Ludwig, Domforum, and Shrine of the Three Holy Kings.
Related : Cologne City Map