Cologne Cathedral
Köln, Germany
12.05.2009
The Cologne Cathedral: A Magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Cologne Cathedral, also known as Kölner Dom in German, is a Gothic-style cathedral located in Cologne, Germany. It is one of the most iconic and well-known landmarks in the country, attracting millions of visitors every year. In 1996, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding cultural and architectural value.
The history of the Cologne Cathedral dates back to the 4th century when a Roman chapel was built on the site. In the 12th century, Archbishop Rainald von Dassel brought the relics of the Three Kings from Milan to Cologne, making it a major pilgrimage site. The construction of the cathedral began in 1248 and was only completed in 1880, making it one of the most ambitious building projects of the Middle Ages.
The cathedral is an impressive example of Gothic architecture, with its soaring spires, intricate sculptures, and stunning stained-glass windows. Its central nave is the largest of any medieval church in the world, and its two spires reach a height of 157 meters, making it the second-tallest church in Europe.
Throughout its history, the cathedral has undergone several renovations and restorations, including the reconstruction of the south transept after it was damaged during World War II. Today, it stands as a symbol of the resilience and perseverance of the people of Cologne.
Aside from its architectural significance, the Cologne Cathedral also houses many priceless treasures. The Shrine of the Three Kings, which contains the relics of the Three Wise Men, is a masterpiece of goldsmiths' work and a major pilgrimage destination. The cathedral also has a beautiful choir screen, a large collection of medieval stained glass, and a stunning altarpiece created by Stefan Lochner in the 15th century.
Visitors can explore the cathedral and its many treasures through guided tours or audio guides, which are available in multiple languages. They can also climb the 533 steps of the south tower to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city.
The Cologne Cathedral is not only a magnificent architectural feat but also a significant religious and cultural site. It is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Germany and a true testament to the country's rich history and heritage.
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Begun in 1248, the construction of this Gothic masterpiece took place in several stages and was not completed until 1880. Over seven centuries, successive builders were inspired by the same faith and a spirit of absolute fidelity to the original plans. Apart from its exceptional intrinsic value and the artistic masterpieces it contains, Cologne Cathedral testifies to the enduring strength of European Christianity.
Cologne Cathedral (German: Kölner Dom, pronounced [ˌkœlnɐ ˈdoːm] , officially Hohe Domkirche Sankt Petrus, English: Cathedral Church of Saint Peter) is a cathedral in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia belonging to the Catholic Church. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne and of the administration of the Archdiocese of Cologne. It is a renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1996. It is Germany's most visited landmark, attracting an average of 6 million people a year. At 157 m (515 ft), the cathedral is the tallest twin-spired church in the world, the second tallest church in Europe after Ulm Minster, and the third tallest church of any kind in the world.
Construction of Cologne Cathedral began in 1248 but was halted in the years around 1560, unfinished. Attempts to complete the construction began around 1814 but the project was not properly funded until the 1840s. The edifice was completed to its original medieval plan in 1880. The towers for its two huge spires give the cathedral the largest façade of any church in the world.
Cologne's medieval builders had planned a grand structure to house the reliquary of the Three Kings and fit for its role as a place of worship for the Holy Roman Emperor. Despite having been left incomplete during the medieval period, Cologne Cathedral eventually became unified as "a masterpiece of exceptional intrinsic value" and "a powerful testimony to the strength and persistence of Christian belief in medieval and modern Europe". In Cologne, only the telecommunications tower is higher than the cathedral.
