Must-See World Heritage Site: Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom, Cathedral Church of Saint Peter) in Germany by Elisa Schmitz

International Hotels
2 years ago

Must-See World Heritage Site: Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom, Cathedral Church of Saint Peter) in Germany

If you take a walk in downtown Cologne, Germany, you will likely see the indescribably beautiful Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom, Cathedral Church of Saint Peter). At 515 feet, it’s the tallest twin-spired church in the world. It can be seen from nearly every point in the city center, making it an easy point of orientation (and an enormous source of pride for those who live here).

Located in the city center, adjacent to the high-speed rail (ICE) train station, the cathedral is not only a revered monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture, but also a World Heritage Site that is Germany's most visited landmark, attracting about 20,000 people every day. And it only took 300 years to build! Although badly damaged because of bombing during World War II, the cathedral (and even its beautiful stained glass windows) survived and remained a beacon of faith and hope.

The cathedral is open to everyone. Whether you attend services or simply take a tour, you won't want to miss this breathtaking treasure. The cathedral is open daily from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (November through April), from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. (May through October) and from 1 p.m. to 4:40 p.m. on Sundays and holidays.

If you're looking for a lovely hotel to stay at in Cologne next to the cathedral, you can't get any closer (or lovelier) than the Excelsior Hotel Ernst. It is literally right across the street, in the middle of this thriving community on the Rhine River. This grand luxury boutique hotel has been family owned since 1863 and, despite its rich history, has updated rooms and modern amenities. Quiet and comfortable, its elegance matches its excellence in service, food and comfort.

Cologne is located on both sides of the Rhine River, and has a bustling hospitality industry with many quaint hotels and water-side restaurants. It's a magical getaway for couples looking for old-world romance, or a fantastic family trip filled with historic sights to see.


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Elisa Schmitz
Thank you, Donna John ! It is truly breathtaking, and in a lovely town to visit as well. Add it to your list! :-)
Meredith Schneider
Beautiful! So impressed with all the detail. Elisa All Schmitz 30Seconds, 300 years?! WOW!
Sheri B Doyle
This looks amazing! Thanks for sharing it with us!
Elisa Schmitz
Thank you, Meredith Schneider and Sheri B Doyle ! It truly took my breath away. I love the history here!
Fiona Whiley
Thanks for sharing Elisa All Schmitz 30Seconds . I love cathedrals. I missed Cologne last time I was in Germany. I'm glad I read about this, because I can see something new next time I visit!
Elisa Schmitz
It is worth the trip. I hope you will let me know what you think when you visit, Fiona Whiley !
Terri Kendrick
We visited Cologne and this cathedral a couple years ago on a Rhine River Viking cruise. There was a service going on at the time and it was truly spectacular (I was a German minor in college)! One additional tip when in Cologne, drink the Kolsch beer, but remember to put your coaster over your glass unless you want them to keep bringing them!! Prost!
Elisa Schmitz
That is simply awesome, Terri Jones ! Thank you for sharing that great tip. I didn't know that! Wonderful addition to this post! :-) #prost
ammmkate
Thanks for the interesting story and fantastic photos
Elisa Schmitz
Thank you for your kind feedback, ammmkate ! It's truly spectacular, and I hope to get back there someday!
DAC Developments
Thanks for sharing this wonderful Article

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