Overstolzenhaus: A Glimpse into Cologne's Medieval Past

Discover the Overstolzenhaus in Cologne, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture and a window into the lives of medieval merchants, nestled in the heart of the city's historic district.

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Altstadt Sud
Overstolzenhaus

The Overstolzenhaus, nestled in Cologne's Altstadt-Süd, stands as one of the city's oldest buildings and Germany's best-preserved Romanesque houses. Constructed around 1230 for the Overstolz family, wealthy merchants who played a vital role in Cologne's history, this patrician house showcases a unique blend of Romanesque and early Gothic architectural styles. Its imposing facade, adorned with stepped gables and intricately designed windows, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of medieval Cologne's elite. Today, the Overstolzenhaus houses the Academy of Media Arts, blending its historical significance with contemporary artistic endeavors. Visitors can admire the building's exterior, explore the surrounding charming Rheingasse, and imagine the bustling trade and political intrigue that once unfolded within its walls. The Overstolzenhaus is a testament to Cologne's resilience, having survived centuries of change and wartime damage, making it a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Overstolzenhaus

Rheingasse 8, Cologne, Innenstadt, 50676, DE

Local tips

Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to attract larger crowds to the Altstadt.
Take advantage of the nearby riverside views along the Rhine for stunning photo opportunities of the city and the Hohenzollern Bridge.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Cologne Cathedral and the Wallraf-Richartz Museum to make the most of your time in the area.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), purchase a ticket for the Cologne public transport system (KVB). Take the U-Bahn (subway) line 16 or 18 towards Bonn or U-Bahn line 5 towards Merkenich. Get off at the 'Heumarkt' station, which is approximately 4 stops away. Upon exiting the station, head towards the 'Heumarkt' square, walk south towards the Rhine river, and turn left onto Rheingasse street. Continue walking for about 5 minutes until you reach Overstolzenhaus, located at Rheingasse 8. A single ticket (Kurzstrecke) costs approximately €2.20.
Walking

If you are near the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), walk towards the Rhine river. Head straight down the 'Domstraße' towards the riverbank. Once you reach the riverbank, turn right and walk along the riverside promenade. Continue walking for about 15 minutes, enjoying the views of the river and the old town. When you reach the 'Heumarkt' area, turn left onto Rheingasse. Overstolzenhaus will be on your right at number 8.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), a taxi or ride-share to Overstolzenhaus will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €10-€15. Inform the driver to take you to Rheingasse 8.
Parking

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Overstolzenhaus is limited. The nearest public parking garage is at Du Mont Carré, which is a 3-5 minute walk away. Access is via Markmannsgasse 3, 50667 Cologne. The parking fee at Du Mont Carré is from €4.50 per hour or from €19.20 for 24 hours. Note that availability cannot be guaranteed and advanced reservation is not possible.

Discover more about Overstolzenhaus

The Overstolzenhaus, discreetly located at Rheingasse 8 in Cologne's Altstadt-Süd (Old Town South), is more than just an old building; it's a portal into the heart of medieval Cologne. Standing proudly as one of the city's oldest structures and among the best-preserved Romanesque houses in Germany, this patrician residence whispers tales of wealthy merchants, political maneuvering, and the enduring spirit of a city that has weathered countless storms. Built around 1230, the Overstolzenhaus owes its existence to the Overstolz family, a dynasty of merchants whose influence permeated Cologne's economic and political landscape. Blithildis Overstolz, daughter of the family's patriarch, Gottschalk Overstolz, is credited with commissioning the house. The family's wealth stemmed from a successful cloth trading business, allowing them to ascend to the upper echelons of Cologne society. The name "Overstolzenhaus" translates to "House of Overstolzen," a testament to the family's prominence and lasting legacy. The Overstolzenhaus is a magnificent example of secular Romanesque architecture, showcasing the characteristic features of the era while also hinting at the emerging Gothic style. Its imposing facade is defined by robust masonry, round arches, and large windows, a design choice that was innovative for its time. The stepped gables, a distinctive feature of the building, add to its visual appeal and make it instantly recognizable. While the windows on the ground floor are the result of a 19th-century renovation, the overall structure retains its medieval charm. Originally, the Overstolzenhaus served a dual purpose: a residence and a commercial space. The first two floors were dedicated to living quarters, while the upper four floors were used for storing wares, reflecting the Overstolz family's mercantile activities. Its location near Cologne's former port on the Rhine River was strategically chosen to facilitate trade and commerce. Inside, the Overstolzenhaus once boasted lavish decorations and furnishings, befitting its wealthy owners. Today, little of the original interior remains, but the banquet hall on the first floor still features a remarkable 13th-century wall painting depicting a medieval tournament. This rare example of secular Romanesque art provides a glimpse into the cultural life of the period. The Overstolzenhaus has faced numerous challenges throughout its long history. In 1838, it was slated for demolition to make way for new apartments, but Johann Peter Weyer, the city architect at the time, intervened and convinced the city council to preserve the building as an important historical landmark. This act of preservation ensured that future generations could appreciate the Overstolzenhaus's architectural and historical significance. During World War II, Cologne suffered extensive damage from bombing raids. The Overstolzenhaus was also heavily affected, with only the first two floors partially surviving. However, unlike many other historic buildings that were lost forever, the Overstolzenhaus was meticulously restored in 1955, a testament to Cologne's commitment to preserving its heritage. During the reconstruction, significant Romanesque wall paintings were discovered hidden behind a later wall, miraculously preserved from destruction. Today, the Overstolzenhaus is home to the Kunsthochschule für Medien Köln (Academy of Media Arts Cologne), a prestigious institution that fosters creativity and innovation. This juxtaposition of the ancient and the modern adds another layer of intrigue to the building, as students and faculty engage in contemporary artistic pursuits within the walls of a medieval landmark. Visiting the Overstolzenhaus is an opportunity to step back in time and experience the atmosphere of medieval Cologne. While the interior is not always open to the public, the exterior is well worth admiring. The building's imposing facade, with its stepped gables and intricate detailing, is a photographer's delight. The surrounding Rheingasse, with its quaint shops and cafes, adds to the charm of the area. The Overstolzenhaus is conveniently located near other significant attractions, making it easy to incorporate into a broader exploration of Cologne. The Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a short walk away, as are numerous museums, churches, and historical sites. To fully appreciate the Overstolzenhaus, take a moment to imagine the lives of the Overstolz family, the merchants, and the artisans who shaped Cologne's history. Consider the challenges they faced, the triumphs they celebrated, and the legacy they left behind. The Overstolzenhaus is a tangible link to this past, a reminder of the enduring power of architecture and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Overstolzenhaus is a must-see destination in Cologne. Its rich history, unique architecture, and central location make it an unforgettable experience. Take a stroll along the Rheingasse, admire the Overstolzenhaus's imposing facade, and let your imagination transport you back to the vibrant world of medieval Cologne.

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Overstolzenhaus: A Glimpse into Cologne's Medieval Past

A brief summary to Overstolzenhaus

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Parking

Unlock the Best of Overstolzenhaus

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Overstolzenhaus

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Overstolzenhaus

Trinitatiskirche

Heumarkt

St. Maria im Kapitol

Pfarrbüro St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen

Heumarkt 43

Equestrian statue of Friedrich Wilhelm III.

Barockfassade

Tauzieher

Old St. Alban

Cologne

Historisches Rathaus der Stadt Köln

blue heart

Jan von Werth-Brunnen, Köln

Arnold-von-Siegen-Brunnen

Unmissable attractions to see

Rheintor der mittelalterlichen Stadtmauer

Mustard Mill & Shop

Malakoffturm

Gürzenich Köln

Hänneschen-Theater

Heinzels Wintermärchen - Weihnachtsmarkt Kölner Altstadt

Old Town Cologne

Lindt Chocolate Museum

Brunnen Marsplatz

Willi-Ostermann-Brunnen

Buttermarkt

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

Deutzer Brücke

Papa Joe's Jazz Bar

Duftmuseum im Farina Haus

Essential places to dine

Mederrano

Ristorante il Tartufo - Köln

Restaurant Bellevue

L'Osteria

Gilden im Zims “Heimat kölscher Helden”

Hänneschen und die Pfeffermühle

Servus Colonia Alpina

Keule

Haxenhaus

Brauhaus Sünner im Walfisch

Restaurant Mama Leone

HACIENDA

The Small Steakhouse

Peters Brauhaus

Ristorante-Pizzeria Il Valentino

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

kölnknipse - schöne fotos im quadrat

UNIQLO Köln

GALERIA Kaufhof

Casado Store

BOGNER Köln

Elbenwald

Close Up GmbH

Pylones

Manufactum Warenhaus

MUJI Cologne Store

Früh Shoppen

BVLGARI

Victorinox Store Köln

ReqArda Internet Cafe

LOUIS VUITTON Cologne Store

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Piano Bar

The Copper Pot - Köln