Cologne Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is a magnificent Gothic cathedral and one of Germany's most celebrated architectural achievements. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dominates the Cologne skyline with its twin spires reaching 157 meters into the sky, making it the tallest twin-spired church in the world and the second tallest church in Europe. Construction began in 1248 under Archbishop Konrad von Hochstaden, with the cathedral designed to house the Shrine of the Three Kings, which contains the relics of the Three Wise Men. However, the ambitious project faced numerous interruptions, and construction was halted in the 15th century, leaving the cathedral unfinished for over 300 years. Work finally resumed in the 19th century based on the original medieval plans, and the cathedral was completed in 1880. The cathedral's facade is a masterpiece of High Gothic architecture, featuring intricate stone tracery, flying buttresses, and countless sculptures. The interior is equally impressive, with soaring vaulted ceilings, magnificent stained glass windows, and the famous golden Shrine of the Three Kings, considered one of the most sophisticated goldsmith works of the Middle Ages. The cathedral houses numerous artistic treasures, including the Gero Cross (10th century), one of the oldest large crucifixes north of the Alps, and stunning stained glass windows, some dating to the 13th century and others created by contemporary artist Gerhard Richter. The cathedral's two towers offer visitors spectacular views over Cologne and the Rhine River. Today, Cologne Cathedral attracts over 6 million visitors annually, making it Germany's most visited landmark. Despite suffering fourteen hits by aerial bombs during World War II, the cathedral survived largely intact and continues to serve as both an active place of worship and a symbol of German resilience and artistic achievement.