Cologne Cathedral
The epic gothic cathedral that dominates Cologne’s skyline
Cologne Cathedral’s famous twin spires | Stockbym / Shutterstock
You don’t really get to visit Cologne without the cathedral having an impact on you. That’s mainly because it’s absolutely impossible to ignore, towering over and completely dominating the city’s skyline.
Taking over 600 years to complete, Cologne cathedral is a medieval and later early modern masterpiece that has also been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. With its seriously imposing design and height, soot-blackened exterior and gargoyles galore, you can see why so many heavy metal fans post Instagram videos of the cathedral as some sort of epicentre to all things gothic.
As one of Germany’s most famous and recognisable churches, Cologne Cathedral draws the crowds. Getting there early, especially in July and August, is a good idea. Entry is free, but stump up the extra €8 to climb the 533 steps of the South Tower for panoramic views over the Rhine. You can even see the city of Bonn if the weather is on your side.
Inside, the Shrine of the Three Kings is the cathedral's centerpiece. The dazzling gilded reliquary is said to host the remains of the Magi, the kings who brought Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh as gifts when Christ was born.
The other thing you’ll see crowds gawping at are the stained glass windows. As you can imagine, they’re absolutely gigantic and epic in every sense of the word. Look out for the pixelated relief by contemporary artist Gerhard Richter.
Leave enough time to visit the Domschatzhammer, the cathedral treasury. This underground space has been transformed into a museum and repository for medieval manuscripts, liturgical artifacts and bejewelled relics. It’s another €8 for entry and an audio guide (available in English).
You may already know that Kölsch is Cologne’s official drink, so stop by Früh am Dom for a liquid lunch at the famous brewery and restaurant after you’re done exploring the incredible Cologne Cathedral.
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