Cologne Cathedral is considered one of the most incredible and impressive cathedrals found across Europe. It is Germany's most famous sacred building—and for good reason: the imposing proportions of this magnificent masterpiece are breathtaking.
Standing 157 meters tall, its spires can be seen from a radius of several kilometers. Its interior covers an area of 6,900 square meters, divided into five naves and seven chapels. Its impressive, smooth columns form pointed arches that soar up to the ceiling. Gazing upward at such fabulous architecture evokes a marvelous sense of depth. Its frescoes—most dating back to the 14th century—and its more than 10,000 square meters of Romantic-style stained glass create a spectacular display of color and light whenever the sun shines through them.
Cologne Cathedral took over 630 years to build, and its history begins in 1164, when Archbishop Rainald von Dassel brought the relics of the Three Wise Men from Milan to Cologne. From that moment on, the city became a major pilgrimage site; consequently, the old cathedral—which had stood there since the year 870—was demolished to make way for the construction of a new one. Built entirely in the Gothic style, the new cathedral was designed to accommodate the ever-growing numbers of the faithful. Construction began in 1248.
In 1560, construction was halted due to a lack of funds and interest—particularly on the part of the architects, who no longer wished to build the cathedral in the Gothic style, as they considered it outdated. They sought to alter the design to adopt the Renaissance style instead.
Consequently, while they remained at an impasse, work on the cathedral lay dormant for nearly 300 years. Now that is indecision!
In 1794, French troops led by Napoleon Bonaparte marched into Cologne, and for years the cathedral served as an arms depot, to the despair of the faithful and the clergy.
The love and enthusiasm of the people of Cologne—along with the thousands of pilgrims traveling the route to the Cathedral—continued to grow. Seeking to capitalize on the situation—and despite being a Protestant who was frequently at odds with the Catholic Church—King Frederick William IV of Prussia, wishing to win the favor of the Catholic population, donated funds for the continuation of the construction work in 1842. The cathedral was finally inaugurated in 1880.
Over the ensuing years, Cologne Cathedral survived two world wars; today, it remains under constant restoration due to atmospheric pollution that is eroding the more than 50 different types of stone used in its construction.
A permanent workshop located within the cathedral itself tests various techniques—including laser technology—to aid in the preservation of this spectacular structure.
Since 1996, it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
The tower is open to visitors, requiring only a climb up the 533 steps leading to the summit. The ascent takes place via a very narrow spiral staircase, but the view of the city from the top is unforgettable. Gazing out at the Rhine and the surrounding landscape evokes a sense of infinite peace.
Opening
Cologne Cathedral is generally open to tourists on weekdays (Monday through Saturday) between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, and on Sundays between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Visits to the tower vestibule are possible after the evening mass until 8:00 PM.
The cathedral is not open to the regular public during religious services.
Tickets
Admission to the cathedral is not free anymore starting on 01/July/2026, entering the church through the Main Portal; adults pay €12,00, students older than 14 years old pay €6,00 and children up to 13 years old enter for free. You can book your tickets on this website.
For church services, personal prayer, or to light a candle, you do not need a ticket, and you will enter through the North Portal Entrance.
Visits to the Cathedral Treasury Museum (Domschatzkammer) and the ascent to the tower each cost €8.00 for adults, or €12.00 for a combined ticket.
Guided tours of Cologne Cathedral are paid for on-site.
Address
Am Domhof
