Tucked away in Cologne’s northern district, the Hl. Konstantin u. Helena church whispers tales of transformation. This unassuming chapel, known as the Maria-Ablass-Kapelle, has witnessed centuries of change. Originally part of the larger St. Maria Ablass church, Hl. Konstantin u. Helena stands as a solitary sentinel of the past. The St. Maria Ablass church, first mentioned in 927, was a grand three-aisled basilica. It served the Damenstift St. Ursula until 1804. Sadly, secularization led to its demolition in 1808. Only this small attached chapel survived. Now, the Hl. Konstantin u. Helena church has found new life. Since the late 1970s, it has become a spiritual home for Cologne’s Russian Orthodox community, established in 1973. The community, acknowledging Cologne’s history, embraces the name “Heiligen Konstantin und Helena-Kirche”. Hl. Konstantin u. Helena’s story is one of resilience and rebirth, a quiet testament to faith enduring amidst the echoes of history.
Pfarrkirche Christi Geburt
“Look at that unusual shape,”” a passerby remarked, gesturing towards the Pfarrkirche Christi Geburt. “”It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen