Exploring Cologne: Cathedral To Rhine River Distance

Cologne Cathedral is one of the world's largest churches, recognised as a monument of Christianity and Gothic architecture. It is located beside the Rhine River in Germany and is dedicated to Saint Peter and the Blessed Virgin Mary. The cathedral is a renowned landmark, attracting an average of 6 million visitors annually. It is the tallest twin-spired church in the world, standing at 515 feet. The site of the cathedral has been occupied by Christian churches since the 4th century. Construction began in 1248 and was completed in 1880. The cathedral suffered 14 hits by aerial bombs during World War II but remarkably remained standing.

Cologne Cathedral's location and history

Cologne Cathedral, officially known as Hohe Domkirche Sankt Petrus (Cathedral Church of Saint Peter), is a Catholic cathedral located in Cologne, Germany. It is Germany's most visited landmark, attracting around 6 million people annually. The cathedral is situated near the Rhine River, with the exact distance between the two not readily available.

History

Cologne Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece that took over seven centuries to build, with construction beginning in 1248 and ending in 1880. The site has been occupied by Christian churches since the 4th century, with the present cathedral's construction commencing after its predecessor was destroyed by fire in 1248. The new cathedral was designed in the Gothic style, emulating French church architecture.

The choir was consecrated in 1322, but construction continued until around 1560, with work stalling for centuries thereafter. During the French Revolution in the 1790s, the cathedral was occupied by French troops who used it as a stable and hay barn. Restoration efforts began in the 1820s, with a new cornerstone laid by King Frederick William IV of Prussia in 1842. The architects Ernst Friedrich Zwirner and Richard Voigtel led the project, following architectural drawings from the 14th century.

The completion of the cathedral in 1880 was celebrated as a national event, with Emperor Wilhelm I in attendance. At the time, it was the tallest building in the world, standing at 157 metres (515 feet). The cathedral suffered significant damage during World War II but remained standing despite multiple bomb hits. Repairs were completed in 1956, and archaeological excavations were conducted in the late 1940s to investigate potential damage to the foundations.

Cologne Cathedral was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 and remains a major attraction for tourists and pilgrims, offering scenic views of the Rhine River from its viewing platform.

Architectural design and features

Cologne Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece and the largest Gothic church in northern Europe. It is dedicated to St Peter and the Virgin Mary and was constructed in the style of the High Gothic cathedrals of northern France. It is richly articulated but with a stiff execution. The design is almost scientifically perfect, and the craftsmanship is precise.

The cathedral is 144.5 metres long, 84 metres wide, and has a window surface area of 10,000 square metres. The ground plan is in the shape of a Latin Cross and has two aisles on either side. The eight-bay nave and the four straight bays of the choir were planned with double aisles, the outer aisles being narrower than the inner ones. The transept has four bays, with east and west aisles, and the west towers are built over four aisle bays, making them wider and deeper than their French counterparts. The chevet has an ambulatory with seven radiating chapels, and there are quadripartite rib vaults throughout.

The elevation and cross-section are similar to the Amiens model, but the vertical architectural members are more slender and numerous. The arcade piers are moulded, with comparatively small foliage capitals, and the vault shafts rise uninterrupted to the springers. The glazed triforium and clerestory are linked by continuous mullions, with four lights in the straight bays, and the triforium openings are further subdivided. The total height of the elevation is almost the same as that at Amiens, but the triforium is placed lower down, occupying the exact centre of the elevation on a 3:1:3 ratio. There are also clear parallels with Amiens in the tracery patterns of the choir clerestory and chapels, as well as the pierced parapet, gabled windows and heavily traceried flying buttresses.

The west façade was guided by a 4-metre-high parchment drawing of the design, which provided 19th-century builders with a reference. The lower third of the façade reflects the disposition of the nave and aisles. The lower parts of the towers are quadrangular, but they change to octagonal above. The openwork stone spires terminate in enormous finials. The transept façades, on the other hand, lacked such medieval guidelines and were designed by the cathedral architect Ernst Friedrich Zwirner. They are based on the design of the west front and are considered some of the most important works of the Gothic Revival.

Artworks and relics

Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned not only for its architectural grandeur but also for the exquisite artworks and sacred relics it houses. The distance between the cathedral and the Rhine River is approximately 500 meters, with the cathedral situated in the heart of the old town, just a short walk from the river's banks. This proximity to the river has played a significant role in the history of the cathedral and the city of Cologne.

Upon entering the vast interior of the cathedral, visitors are greeted by an array of artistic treasures. The stained glass windows, some of which date back to the 16th century, depict biblical scenes and the lives of saints. The vibrant colors and intricate details of these windows create a spiritual ambiance, with the light filtering through, casting a divine glow. One of the highlights is the Great South Window, featuring intricate scenes from the Old and New Testaments.

Housing an extensive collection of sacred relics, the cathedral has long been a significant pilgrimage site. Among the most notable relics is the Shrine of the Three Kings, an exquisite gold reliquary that is said to contain the bones of the Three Wise Men. This magnificent work of art, created in the 12th and 13th centuries, is adorned with intricate enamel work and precious stones. It is located behind the high altar, and the faithful and curious alike flock to catch a glimpse of this revered relic.

The cathedral also boasts an impressive collection of sculptures and carvings. The choir stalls, for instance, feature intricate carvings that depict a variety of scenes, from religious narratives to whimsical creatures. The sculptures that adorn the exterior, particularly those on the south portal, are equally impressive. These larger-than-life figures, depicting saints and biblical characters, greet visitors as they enter, serving as a reminder of the cathedral's spiritual purpose.

Numerous side chapels, each with its own unique artistic treasures, are scattered throughout the cathedral. These chapels were often commissioned by wealthy patrons or guilds, and they showcase a range of artistic styles. One notable example is the Virgin's Chapel, which features a stunning altarpiece depicting the Life of the Virgin Mary. This altarpiece, with its intricate carvings and vibrant paintings, is a testament to the skill of the medieval artisans who created it.

In addition to the artworks and relics, Cologne Cathedral is also renowned for its historical and architectural significance. The cathedral took centuries to build, and its construction was a testament to the devotion and perseverance of the people of Cologne. The cathedral's two towering spires, which can be seen from the banks of the Rhine, have become an iconic symbol of the city, reflecting the enduring faith and resilience of its inhabitants.

Visitor information and rules

Cologne Cathedral is located in the German city of Cologne, in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It is Germany's most visited landmark, attracting around 6 million people a year. The cathedral is open to tourists on working days (Monday to Saturday) between 10 am and 5 pm, and on Sundays between 1 pm and 4 pm. The tower narthex is open after the evening Mass until 8 pm. However, as Masses take priority, the opening hours may change, so it is recommended to check the up-to-date Mass times before your visit.

Visitor Information:

• Location: Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 am-5 pm; Sundays, 1 pm-4 pm.
• Tower Narthex: Open after evening Mass until 8 pm.
• Mass Times: Working days (Mon-Sat): 6:30 am, 7:15 am, 8:00 am, 9:00 am, and 6:30 pm. Sundays: 7:00 am, 8:30 am, 10:00 am, 12:00 noon, 5:00 pm, and 7:00 pm.
• Admission: Free for the cathedral; tower entry is €6 for adults and €3 for children, students, and persons with special needs.

Rules:

• All visitors must be prepared for identity checks by cathedral staff when entering the cathedral, the treasury, and the tower ascent.
• Only small bags (maximum A4 size) are allowed inside the cathedral, the treasury, and the tower. Large luggage, including wheeled suitcases and cabin trolleys, is not permitted and cannot be stored at the cathedral.
• Visitors are expected to dress appropriately. Sleeveless or cropped tops, short shorts, and skirts are considered inappropriate. Men may cover their heads for religious or health reasons. Religiously offensive symbols or racist symbols are not allowed.
• Food and drinks are not allowed inside the cathedral and should be consumed outside.
• Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited inside the cathedral.
• Persons who are visibly drunk will not be allowed to enter.
• Cell phones should be on silent mode, and phone calls should be made outside the cathedral.
• Photography and video recording are permitted for private use, but the use of flash is not allowed. Commercial or promotional use of images and videos requires prior permission.
• Large items such as folding chairs and stools are not permitted inside the cathedral.
• Weapons, including potential weapons like CS gas, are strictly prohibited.
• Visitors are expected to respect the dignity of the cathedral and refrain from loud talking or running.
• Music and singing outside of services are not permitted.
• Parents or adults accompanying children or youth must supervise them at all times.
• Visitors must respect closures and off-limits areas.

Reviews and opinions

The Cologne Cathedral is one of the most famous religious structures in Germany and has been described as a "must-see" and the "best monument in Germany". It is a "beautiful Gothic-style cathedral" and "an amazing spot for art and history lovers". The cathedral is located near the Rhine River, and visitors can enjoy views of the river and the cathedral from the riverbank or a river cruise. One visitor noted that the cathedral is "right up there with the best in Europe" and "mystical from the outside, just beautiful on the inside". The interior features "beautiful stained glass windows", and the sculptures [...] are worth spending hours admiring. The cathedral is free to enter and is "definitely worth seeing".

The cathedral is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised as "an exceptional work of human creative genius" and "a powerful testimony to the strength and persistence of Christian belief in medieval and modern Europe". It is "the largest Gothic church in northern Europe" and features "immense twin towers" that stand 515 feet (157 metres) tall. The towers give the cathedral "the largest façade of any church in the world".

The cathedral is also renowned for its art treasures, including the "massive gold Shrine of the Three Kings", containing relics of the Magi; the "Shrine of the Magi", the largest reliquary shrine in Europe; the "Gero Crucifix", the oldest large crucifix north of the Alps; and the "Mailänder Madonna", a wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus.

The cathedral has been damaged by war and pollution over the centuries, but restoration work has been ongoing.

Frequently asked questions