Cologne Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is a Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site towering over the Rhine. Begun in 1248 and completed in the 19th century, it features soaring twin spires, intricate stonework, and luminous stained glass, including the modern Richter Window. Inside, the Shrine of the Three Kings draws pilgrims and history lovers alike. Visitors can climb 533 steps for panoramic city views or admire the nave’s vast scale from ground level. Centrally located by the Hauptbahnhof, the cathedral is free to enter, making it an accessible, essential stop for architecture, art, and European history.