Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Germany. Located in the heart of the city, the cathedral is a stunning piece of Gothic architecture that has been standing since 1248. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most visited landmark in Germany. If you are visiting Cologne, here are 10 things to do in Cologne Cathedral.
1. Climb the South Tower: The South Tower of Cologne Cathedral is the highest point of the cathedral and offers breathtaking views of the city. The climb is not for the faint of heart, as it requires climbing 509 steps up a narrow spiral staircase. But the views from the top are more than worth the effort.
2. Visit the Shrine of the Three Kings: The Shrine of the Three Kings is one of the most important relics in the cathedral. It is a gold sarcophagus that contains the remains of the three wise men who visited the baby Jesus in Bethlehem. The shrine was made in 1180 and is one of the most important works of art in the cathedral.
3. Attend a Service: Cologne Cathedral is a working church and offers regular services throughout the week. It is worth attending a service while you are there to experience the beauty and grandeur of the cathedral.
4. Take a Tour: There are several tours available at Cologne Cathedral. A guided tour is the best way to learn about the history and architecture of the cathedral. You can also take a tour of the treasury, which houses a collection of religious artifacts.
5. See the Rose Window: The Rose Window is one of the most iconic features of the cathedral. It is a large stained glass window that dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the largest stained glass windows in the world and is a must-see when visiting the cathedral.
6. Visit the Crypt: The Crypt of Cologne Cathedral is one of the oldest parts of the building. It houses the remains of several archbishops and is a fascinating place to explore.
7. Attend a Concert: The acoustics of Cologne Cathedral are perfect for music, and it is a popular venue for concerts. The cathedral hosts regular concerts throughout the year, so check the schedule to see if there is a concert while you are visiting.
8. Explore the Roof: The roof of Cologne Cathedral is a spectacular sight. You can take a tour of the roof to get a closer look at the intricate architecture and sculptures.
9. See the Cathedral Museum: The Cathedral Museum is located in the crypt of the cathedral and houses a collection of artifacts relating to the history of the cathedral. It is a great place to learn more about the history of the cathedral and the art that it contains.
10. Take a Boat Ride: One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Cologne Cathedral is to take a boat ride on the Rhine River. You can get a unique view of the cathedral from the river and take in the beauty of the city from the water.
Cologne Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Germany and a must-see when visiting the city. Whether you are looking for a place to explore the history and architecture of the cathedral or just want to take in the beauty of the city from the water, there are plenty of things to do in Cologne Cathedral.