Top architectural sightseeing and landmarks of Cologne - ideas on city exploration routes


Video of flights over top monuments of Cologne in HD format.
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This review is a great opportunity to look at architectural landmarks of Cologne from a new perspective – namely, from the sky. Click the video to enjoy a 3D flight over the architectural ensemble of Cologne and to look at the most interesting landmarks in detail - at Cologne Cathedral, Great St. Martin Church, St. Andrew Church, St. Kunibert Church, Colonius and many others. Below you will find the most amusing historic facts and professional photographs of every famous sightseeing in Cologne.

Cologne Cathedral, Cologne

Location on the map:   Facts:
» Cologne Cathedral is one of the world's most famous Roman Catholic cathedral built in the Gothic style.
» The cathedral reaching a height of 157 meters is ranked third in the list of the highest churches in the world and listed as a World Cultural Heritage.
» Construction of the temple was carried out in two stages, in 1248-1437 and in 1842-1880. The temple was rebuilt and restored several times.
» Near Cologne Cathedral there are ongoing archaeological researches, because scientists have proved that this place has been considered holy even 600 years before our era. During excavations on the territory adjacent to the church the ruins of ancient temples built in honor of the pagan gods were found.
» Cologne Cathedral houses some of the major shrines of Christianity. The most important shrines are displayed in the treasury of the cathedral. You can see relics of the three Magi, numerous burials of archbishops, restored Milan Madonna and many other priceless treasures in Cologne Cathedral.

Great St. Martin Church, Cologne

Location on the map:   Facts:
» Great St. Martin Church is the Catholic Church that is one of the most interesting and unique attractions of Cologne.
» The church originated in 1220 in the form, which we can see now.
» Originally, the church was built in the Romanesque style, but after numerous fires it was repeatedly repaired and rebuilt, acquiring new features.
» During the World War II, the building of the church has been badly damaged, but soon the church was restored, and in 1985 it was reopened for visitors.

St. Andrew Church, Cologne

Location on the map:   Facts:
» St. Andrew Church is the Catholic Church in the central area of the city.
» St. Andrew Church is the Romanesque nave basilica with a transept.
» The church was founded in the 10th century.
» The church was consecrated in honor of the Apostle Andrew.
» The relics of Albertus Magnus, philosopher, theologian, scholar, a prominent representative of medieval scholasticism and mentor of Thomas Aquinas, lie there.

St. Kunibert Church, Cologne

Location on the map:   Facts:
» St. Kunibert Church is the Catholic Church named in honor of the tenth bishop of Cologne, who laid the temple in the 7th century.
» Bishop Kunibert was buried here in the church, and later canonized.
» St. Kunibert is considered the protector and patron of Cologne.
» Holy spring originates under the slab before the altar; it’s believed that it has some miraculous properties. It was believed that if a pregnant woman bathe in it, her child is sure to be born healthy.
» January 16, 1998, Pope John Paul II conferred the Church of St. Kunibert the title of minor papal basilica.

Colonius, Cologne

Location on the map:   Facts:
» Colonius is the reinforced concrete TV and radio broadcasting tower.
» The height of the building is 266 m. Thus, the tower is the highest building in the North Rhine and the seventh highest construction in Germany.
» The name of the tower was given in honor of the Roman name of Cologne.
» The tower was put into operation in June 1981.
» Unfortunately, at the present time Colonius isn’t available for visitors, while earlier it housed an observation deck and a fine restaurant.

Cologne Tower, Cologne

Location on the map:   Facts:
» Cologne Tower is the office skyscraper that was erected within two years, from 1999 to 2001.
» The height of this 44-storey skyscraper is 148.5 meters, or 165.5 meters with the antenna.
» That’s the thirteenth highest building in Germany.
»  The complex of buildings, including this skyscraper, is designed for enterprises and organizations of IT sphere and contains offices, meeting rooms for conventions and conferences.
» The public observation deck with the restaurant can be found at the thirtieth floor of Cologne Tower.

Basilica of the Holy Apostles, Cologne

Location on the map:
Facts: » The Basilica of the Holy Apostles is another Catholic church in Cologne that is the basilica with two transepts and three Romanesque naves.
» The church is decorated with three towers; the height of the highest is 67 m. This tower is the third highest among all the Romanesque churches of Cologne.
» The church was built in the 9th century, and later the Basilica of the Holy Apostles was erected there.
» In 1860, the gymnasium, which still exists today, was open in the church.
» After World War II, the church was badly damaged. However, funds for the restoration of the temple were collected, and in 1957 the building was renovated.
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Build your walking routes in Cologne on the landmark map

More to see in Cologne
You will find many priceless historical and architectural monuments in Cologne. Every tourist should not forget to visit them. We encourage you to pay your attention on the ensemble of 12 Romanesque churches – the majority of religious monuments of the city were built yet in the Middle Ages. Cathedral of St. George is the most beautiful building made in the Romanesque style. Cathedrals and churches of the city were damaged seriously during the Second World War, but thanks to the efforts of talented architects and restorers they were fully restored. Wallraf-Richartz-Museum is one of the most popular museum complexes of the city. The walls of the museum keep collections of priceless historical artifacts and art exhibits. Rhine Park in Cologne remains one of favorite places for walking among both residents and guests of the city. Without a doubt, beautiful dancing fountains are the main decoration of the park. You will also find a swimming pool, several dancing zones and areas for picnics on the territory of the park. This park will be truly loved by fans of active pastime. Among other prominent attractions in Cologne that are recommended for visiting are Chocolate Museum, the local Town Hall, and beautiful Cologne Cathedral. Imhoff Stollwerck Chocolate Museum was opened not so long ago, in 1993. It is named in honor of the major company that produces favorite sweets of many people. The museum has a collection of interesting exhibits that have direct or indirect connection … Read further

Architectural landmarks in the regions around Cologne

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