Heidi Norton
The Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Germany's most famous landmarks, is closed to tourists due to a possible terrorist attack. Intelligence reports indicate that the cathedral could be the target of an Islamist attack, leading to heightened security measures and temporary closure to tourists. While liturgical services continue as usual, the building will remain closed between services for the safety of visitors and staff.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for Closure | Indications of a planned Islamist attack |
| Status | Closed to tourists |
| Security Measures | Police presence increased, careful checks of people entering the cathedral |
Security concerns
Cologne Cathedral is one of Germany's most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is usually visited by more than 100,000 people between Christmas and New Year. However, due to security concerns, the cathedral has been closed to tourists following warnings of a possible terrorist attack.
Security Measures
The police in Cologne have stepped up security measures due to indications of a planned Islamist attack. There has been intelligence that the cathedral could be the target of attacks by an Islamist group, specifically referring to New Year's Eve. In response, the cathedral's head of security, Oliver Gassen, announced that liturgical services would continue as usual, but tourist visits would not be possible. The building would be closed between services to ensure the safety of those attending the services.
Identity Checks and Bag Restrictions
Cologne Cathedral has implemented strict security measures to enhance the safety of its visitors, staff, and the overall premises. These measures include identity checks by cathedral staff when entering the cathedral, the treasury, and the tower ascent. Visitors are advised to carry valid identification documents and be prepared for these checks.
In addition, only small bags and rucksacks, up to specific dimensions, are permitted inside the cathedral and its special areas. Larger items, such as wheeled suitcases, cabin trolleys, and hiking rucksacks, are not allowed within the cathedral premises and cannot be stored there. Visitors with luggage can utilise the left-luggage office near the cathedral, which is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm and offers luggage storage for a fee.
Impact on Visitors and Operations
The security concerns and subsequent closure of the cathedral to tourists have undoubtedly impacted the usual influx of visitors during the holiday season. While it has not deterred churchgoers, as noted by Cathedral Provost Guido Assmann, the governing body of the cathedral, it has prevented tourists from entering and exploring this iconic landmark.
The closure also affects the various tours and experiences offered at the cathedral, such as tower climbs and treasury visits, which are typically popular among tourists. These tours provide an opportunity to appreciate the cathedral's architecture, artwork, stained glass windows, and tombs. The security measures and closures are necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals, but they do disrupt the usual operations and accessibility of the cathedral.
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Opening times
Cologne Cathedral is open all year round. During the summer months (May to October), it is open from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm. In the winter (November to April), it closes earlier at 7:30 pm.
The cathedral usually draws about 20,000 visitors each day. However, it is currently closed to tourists due to security concerns.
The tower is open daily from 9:00 am and closes between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm, depending on the time of year. The admission fee is €3. A combined ticket to the tower and the treasure chamber is available for €6.
Guided tours in English are available Monday to Saturday between 10:00 am and 2:30 pm, and on Sundays and holidays at 2:30 pm. These cost €7 for adults and €5 for children and students.
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Location
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is located in the western German city of Cologne, right next to the city's central train station. The Gothic cathedral is one of Germany's most famous landmarks and is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic and Neo-Gothic architecture in the world. With its famous twin towers, it dominates the city's skyline and can be viewed from anywhere in Cologne. The cathedral's address is Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Germany.
Cologne is well-connected to other major German cities, and the city also has an international airport. The cathedral is easily accessible, especially if you arrive by train, as it is situated right next to the railway station.
The cathedral is usually visited by over 100,000 people between Christmas and New Year. However, due to security concerns and possible terrorist attacks, it was closed to tourists for a period of time.
The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. It held the title of the World's tallest building from its completion in 1880 until 1884.
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Architecture
The Cologne Cathedral is a Gothic cathedral that dominates the city's skyline with its twin-spired towers. Construction began in 1248 and took over 600 years to complete, finally finishing in 1880. It is one of Germany's most famous landmarks and is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic and Neo-Gothic architecture in the world. The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996.
The exterior of the cathedral is dark and imposing, while the interior is awe-inspiring. The nave leads to the shrine of the Three Magi, or the Three Wise Men, whose relics were brought to the city in 1164—the reason the cathedral was built. The cathedral also features stunning stained glass windows, incredible architecture, and interesting tombs. Visitors can climb the 533 steps to the top of the dome, which offers spectacular views of Cologne. The tower is accessible via a spiral staircase and a metal staircase.
The cathedral is usually open to tourists on weekdays between 10 am and 5 pm, and on Sundays between 1 pm and 4 pm. However, these hours may vary depending on the daily incidence rate in the city of Cologne and the priority given to Masses.
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Tourist information
Visiting Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Cathedral is open to visitors all year round. During the summer months (May to October), it is open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and in the winter (November to April), it closes earlier at 7:30 p.m. The cathedral is free to enter, but there is a fee to climb the tower or visit the treasury.
Opening Hours for Tower and Treasury
The tower is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., depending on the season. The treasury is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. A combined ticket for both costs €6.
Tour Options
Guided tours are available in English from Monday to Saturday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., and on Sundays and holidays at 2:30 p.m. Adult tickets are €7, and children and students are €5.
Getting There
The cathedral is easily accessible by train, as it is located right next to the railway station. If you are travelling by air, Cologne has an international airport.
Luggage Storage
There is a left-luggage office next to the Cologne Cathedral Shop, open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (with extended hours during the pre-Christmas period). Storing luggage costs €2 per hour.
Security Measures
Please note that identity checks are in place for all visitors to the cathedral, treasury, and tower. Only small bags (up to 40x35x15cm) are permitted, and luggage storage is available.
Dress Code
Please dress appropriately when visiting the cathedral. Sleeveless or cropped tops, short shorts, and skirts are not allowed. Men may cover their heads for religious or health reasons. No racist or religiously offensive symbols will be tolerated.
Photography
Photography without flash is permitted for private use outside of services. During services, photos can be taken from your seat. Please ensure that other visitors are not included in your photos.
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Frequently asked questions
Due to indications of a planned Islamist attack, the police have increased security measures and the cathedral has been closed to tourists.
The cathedral closed to tourists on 26 December 2023.
No, all liturgical services will continue to take place.
It is not yet clear when the cathedral will reopen to tourists.
Visitors are only permitted to bring small bags and rucksacks into the cathedral. Wheeled suitcases, cabin trolleys, hiking rucksacks and other large items of luggage are not allowed and cannot be stored in the cathedral. However, there is a left-luggage office right next to the cathedral shop where visitors can store their luggage for €2 per hour.
