Cologne Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is a magnificent Gothic cathedral and the most visited landmark in Germany, attracting an average of 20,000 people per day. Construction of the cathedral began in 1248 but was halted in the 16th century, leaving it unfinished for more than 300 years. Work resumed in the 19th century, and it was finally completed in 1880, staying true to the original medieval plans. With its twin spires reaching 157 meters (515 feet), it was the tallest building in the world from 1880 to 1884. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe. Its most famous treasure is the Shrine of the Three Kings, believed to contain the remains of the Three Wise Men, which made the cathedral a major pilgrimage destination during the Middle Ages. Other remarkable features include the 12th-century Gero Cross, the oldest large crucifix north of the Alps; the Altar of the Patron Saints of Cologne, a masterful triptych painted by Stephan Lochner around 1440; and 10,000 square meters of stained glass windows, including contemporary designs by Gerhard Richter installed in 2007. Miraculously, despite being hit by 14 bombs during World War II, the cathedral remained standing while the rest of the city was largely destroyed. Visitors can climb the 533 steps of the south tower for panoramic views of the city and the Rhine River. The cathedral's scale, architectural complexity, and historical significance make it an awe-inspiring monument to human creativity and spiritual aspiration.