Explore The Cologne Cathedral: A Historical And Architectural Wonder

The Cologne Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece and Germany's most famous religious structure. It is the world's third-tallest church and is known for its long construction history, intricate details, tall spires, and stunning stained glass windows. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses the Shrine of the Three Kings, which contains the relics of the Magi, and the 4th-century St. Peter's Staff. With its imposing presence, the cathedral is a defining symbol of Cologne's skyline and is definitely worth a visit.

The cathedral's Gothic architecture

The Cologne Cathedral is a renowned monument of Gothic architecture and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1996. Construction of the cathedral began in 1248 but was halted around 1560, remaining unfinished for centuries. The cathedral was finally completed in 1880, adhering absolutely to its original medieval plan.

The Cologne Cathedral is the tallest twin-spired church in the world, standing at 157 metres (515 feet) tall. It is Germany's most visited landmark, attracting an average of 6 million people a year.

The Shrine of the Three Kings

The shrine was built between 1180 and 1225, with parts designed by the famous medieval goldsmith Nicholas of Verdun. It is shaped like a basilica, with two sarcophagi side by side and a third resting on their roof ridges. The entire structure is made of wood, adorned with gold and silver overlay, filigree, enamel, and over 1,000 jewels and beads. The outside of the shrine is covered with intricate decorations, featuring 74 high-relief figures in silver-gilt, depicting the stories of the three Magi, the Virgin Mary, and the life of Christ.

The relics of the Three Kings were first exhibited to the public in the 12th century. They were brought to Milan from Constantinople by Empress Helena, Constantine the Great's mother, in an oxcart. In 1164, they were transferred to Cologne by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, who gifted them to the Archbishop of Cologne, Rainald of Dassel. The construction of the present Cologne Cathedral began in 1248 to house these important relics, and it took 632 years to complete.

The shrine has undergone periods of damage and restoration, including a robbery in 1574 when several gems and a large cameo were stolen. The last restoration took place between 1961 and 1973, after the shrine was removed for safekeeping during World War II.

The front of the shrine, completed after 1200, features figures made of pure gold and adorned with precious gems. The central high midpoint depicts the Adoration of the Magi, the Virgin Mary enthroned with the infant Jesus, and the Baptism of Christ. The back of the shrine is similar in appearance to the two reliquaries on top, with the relics of the Three Kings in the bottom part and martyrs Felix and Nabor in the upper part. The upper zone depicts the resurrected Christ crowning the martyrs.

The stained glass windows

The Cologne Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and one of the most famous churches in Germany. It is renowned for its intricate details, towering spires, and exquisite stained glass windows. The windows are a highlight for visitors, with the south transept window, in particular, being a stunning work of art.

In the 19th century, the Royal Stained Glass Institute in Berlin-Charlottenburg crafted windows depicting secular and Christian rulers, which were donated by the Kingdom of Prussia. Unfortunately, these windows were destroyed during World War II, along with much of the city. They were replaced in 1948 by simple ornamental glazing, which was bright and colourless.

In 2003, the cathedral chapter decided to renew the window once again. Several artists submitted proposals, but it was the abstract design by Gerhard Richter, an 87-year-old German artist known for his photorealistic paintings, that was ultimately chosen. Richter's design, titled "Kölner Domfenster" (Cologne Cathedral Window), features 11,000 hand-blown glass panels in 72 colours and shades. Each panel measures 9.6 x 9.6 cm, and the entire window covers a surface area of 106 square metres. The colours were chosen to match those used in the medieval windows and the cathedral's other windows. The squares were arranged randomly, with a computer program facilitating the process of organising the unique colours.

The window was fabricated by Derix Glasstudios and inaugurated in August 2007 as part of a Eucharistic celebration. While it received some criticism, it was also celebrated as a "symphony of light" by artist pastor Josef Sauerborn. The window's abstract nature invites silence and meditation, creating a unique atmosphere within the cathedral.

The cathedral's history

The history of the Cologne Cathedral is a long and fascinating one, spanning many centuries. Here is a detailed account of its rich history:

The Early Years

The site of the cathedral has been a place of Christian worship since the early days of the religion. The earliest traces of a church date back to the 4th century, with a baptistery from the 6th century also discovered during excavations. In the mid-6th century, a small church was extended towards the east, featuring a choir. By the year 800, after further alterations, the building had reached a length of almost 100 metres, boasting an east choir, a schola cantorum, and a raised west choir surrounded by an atrium.

The Carolingian Cathedral

In the 9th century, the church was completely rebuilt, with the new structure being consecrated in 870. Known as the Carolingian Cathedral or the Hildebold Cathedral, it was one of the largest Carolingian churches ever constructed, serving as a model for numerous other churches. This cathedral was about 95 metres long and had an aisled nave with 10 bays and 12 windows on each side. It featured transepts at both the east and west ends, with crossing towers and choirs oriented towards the east.

The Arrival of the Three Kings' Relics

On July 23, 1164, the Archbishop of Cologne, Rainald of Dassel, brought the relics of the Three Wise Men to the city from Milan. This event elevated Cologne's status as a place of pilgrimage, attracting crowds of pilgrims. To accommodate the influx, the construction of a new Gothic cathedral began in 1248, with the foundation stone laid by Archbishop Konrad von Hochstaden.

Construction and Completion

The construction of the Gothic cathedral was a lengthy process, spanning centuries. Work began in earnest in 1248, but it was halted around 1560 due to a lack of funding and interest in Gothic architecture. Attempts to complete the cathedral commenced around 1814, but proper funding wasn't secured until the 1840s. Finally, in 1880, the cathedral was completed according to its original medieval plan, standing at a height of 157 metres.

World War II and Post-War History

During World War II, the Cologne Cathedral suffered 14 hits from aerial bombs, yet it remained standing amidst the destruction of the city. Repairs were completed in 1956, and archaeological excavations were undertaken to investigate potential damage to the foundations. The cathedral was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, and it continues to be a major attraction for tourists and pilgrims alike.

The view from the tower

To reach the observation deck, visitors must climb 533 steps up the spiral staircase of the south tower. It is certainly not an easy climb, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. Along the way, you will pass the belfry, which houses St. Peter's Bell, also known as "decke Pitter" by the locals. This bell is the largest swinging bell in the world, weighing 24,000 kilograms.

The Cologne Cathedral tower offers a unique perspective of the city. From up above, you can admire the Gothic masterpiece of the cathedral itself, with its intricate design and engineering marvels. You can also see the modern architecture of the KölnTriangle tower, the charming footbridge in Mediapark, and the majestic Köln Seilbahn cable car.

The tower climb is not for the faint of heart, especially those afraid of heights. The stairs can be narrow and slippery, and it can get tight when encountering descending visitors. However, the breathtaking view from the top makes the challenging climb well worth the effort.

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