About this Destination
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) represents Gothic architecture masterpiece modeled on Amiens Cathedral with construction beginning 1248 by Archbishop Konrad von Hochstaden. After 632-year building process with completion in 1880, cathedral became world tallest building featuring 157m twin spires and largest church facade. UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 houses Shrine of Three Kings gold sarcophagus with Biblical Magi remains. Germany most-visited landmark attracts 6 million annual visitors with 300,000 tonnes stone construction requiring 30,000€ daily maintenance by 100-person Dombauhütte team. 10,000 square meters windows illuminate Gothic interior with supreme northern French architectural influence.