Cologne Cathedral

Almost all the tourists start their city visiting with Cologne Cathedral, the second-largest cathedral in the world.

The unique architecture and stained-glass windows, combining more than 70 shades, impress visitors. This monument in one of the Cologne symbols. 

Its building was started in 1248. The authorities had an idea to construct the most beautiful and the highest cathedral in the world to keep there the relics of the 3 Magi. But the attempts were unsuccessful, the building was stopped in 1450 because of the economic reasons. It was continued 300 years later, and the first visitors entered the cathedral only in 1880. They admired the building. The laced spires of the basilica are on the height of 160 meters, every corner is decorated with stucco moldings, elegant sculptures, carved arches, and columns. The walls are inlaid and gold-plated, and the floor is made of Rhein stone with a beautiful greyish shade. In the center of the cathedral is the main hall with chapels and galleries around. The cathedral also has the unique bell “Peter”, about 20 tones weight. So, it is hard to imagine that people could create all this Gothic masterpiece. 

Inside of Cologne Cathedral is the spiral stairs with more than 500 steps leading to viewpoints and bell towers. Those who rise to the top will see the marvelous view of the city.