Gothic architecture is a well-known monument in Germany. We are standing in front of one of its finest examples. Cologne Cathedral. Its official name is Cathedral Church of Saint Peter. Locals simply call it Kölner Dom.
Cologne Cathedral is more than just a beautiful building. It is a symbol of Cologne. It represents German Catholicism. It stands as a testament to Gothic architecture.
Construction began in 1248. It was finally completed in 1880. That is 632 years of building. Imagine the dedication of the people.
The cathedral had a height of 157 meters when it was finished. It was the tallest building in the world for four years. Today, only the telecommunications tower is taller in Cologne.
Inside Cologne Cathedral is the Shrine of the Three Kings. The Three Wise Men relics attract visitors from everywhere. Cologne became an important pilgrimage site because of this.
The cathedral suffered fourteen hits by bombs. This happened during World War II. Yet, it remained standing. The surrounding city was flattened. The twin spires served as a navigation point for Allied aircraft.
After the war ended in 1956 repairs of the cathedral were completed. Imperfections remain as a constant reminder of the war.
Pope Benedict XVI visited Cologne Cathedral in 2005. This was part of World Youth Day. One million pilgrims visited during that time. It shows the cathedral’s importance to the Catholic faith.
A new stained glass window was added in 2007. Gerhard Richter designed the window. It is made of 11500 colored glass pieces. They resemble pixels.
Cologne Cathedral became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. This recognizes its cultural significance. High-rise buildings threatened its status. Restrictions were placed on the height of new constructions.
Constant maintenance keeps the cathedral in good condition. Stonemasons work to repair the damages caused by weather and pollution. Scaffolding is always present around Cologne Cathedral.
The ground plan resembles that of Amiens Cathedral. It is shaped like a Latin Cross. Two aisles support the high Gothic vaults.
The ground plan resembles that of Amiens Cathedral. It is shaped like a Latin Cross. Two aisles support the high Gothic vaults.
Inside, you can see the high altar built in 1322. It is made of black marble with white marble figures. The Coronation of the Virgin is at the center. The Shrine of the Three Kings is another treasure. Nicholas of Verdun created it.
The Gero Crucifix is near the sacristy. It is a large crucifix carved in oak. Dating back to around 960 it is the oldest large crucifix north of the Alps.
Cologne Cathedral has eleven church bells. One of them is St. Petersglocke. It weighs 24 tonnes.
Cologne Cathedral represents resilience faith and architectural brilliance. It is a symbol of Cologne. Its story is etched in its stones. Its bells ring out through the city. Cologne Cathedral is a testament to time.