Messehochhaus

A steel giant watches over the Rhine. This, my friends, is the Messehochhaus. The Messehochhaus has witnessed a century of Cologne’s history, evolving from a symbol of industrial might to a landmark of the city’s vibrant trade fair industry. The Messehochhaus wasn’t always part of Koelnmesse. Originally built for Klöckner-Humboldt-Deutz AG, it became the Koelnmesse headquarters in 2005. The building’s 15 stories offer panoramic views of the city and the bustling trade fair grounds below. Koelnmesse itself dates back to the early 1920s, thanks to the vision of then-mayor Konrad Adenauer. The first event, the Spring Trade Fair of 1924, was a resounding success. This prompted the need for expansion, leading to the construction of the Rheinhallen, the Staatenhaus, and the original Messeturm. The 1928 Pressa exhibition cemented Koelnmesse’s international reputation. The Messehochhaus, through its association with Koelnmesse, has also borne witness to darker times. During World War II, the exhibition grounds, including the area where the Messehochhaus now stands, were tragically misused as a camp. This period serves as a stark reminder of the importance of peace and the responsible use of such spaces. Koelnmesse has significantly grown over the decades. Today, with 285,000 square meters of indoor space and 100,000 square meters outdoors, it is one of the largest exhibition centers worldwide. From photokina to gamescom, Koelnmesse hosts a diverse array of events, attracting millions of visitors annually. The Messehochhaus stands tall, a silent observer of this vibrant activity, a symbol of resilience and the ever-evolving spirit of Cologne.