A place of de­vo­tion

Over and over again, Hallelujah! “For the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth. Halleluja!” In Cologne Cathedral, the final chorus of Handel’s Messiah rings out. Goosebumps are widespread. The notes sound so bright and clear. The location where the singing praises the Lord is so impressive: One of the most beautiful and biggest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Every year the cathedral attracts millions of people who feel a sense of reverence and find peace as well as the mortal remains of the Three Magi – a true piece of human heritage. This unique atmosphere can only be amplified by music. Choral and organ concerts regularly take place in the reliquary and the central nave of the cathedral. Then the music fills this enormous space and moves the heart.

Bells ringing high above Cologne

The number of steps to be overcome to reach the south tower’s vantage platform totals an impressive 533. There’s no lift at all. At the end of their climb to a height of 97 metres, however, visitors will be rewarded with a panoramic view of Cologne and the river Rhine. The world’s largest and best-known freely suspended church bell can be found up here as well. Rung only on eleven specific holidays, its sound is music to the audience’s ears. Anyone who wants to experience it up close can sign up to hear the bell ringing right there. Of course, they’ll be wearing hearing protection for this perfectly unique experience.

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