Römisches Praetorium: Unearthing Cologne's Roman Past
Explore the remnants of the Roman governor's palace in Cologne and step back in time to discover the city's rich Roman heritage, architecture, and artifacts.
Delve into Cologne's captivating Roman history at the Römisches Praetorium, an archaeological site revealing the city's ancient architecture and storied past. Once the governor's palace of the Roman province of Lower Germania, this site offers a glimpse into the political and administrative heart of Roman Cologne. Explore the remnants of this once-grand structure, including well-preserved walls, foundations, and an intricate sewage system showcasing Roman engineering prowess. Located beneath the Cologne City Hall, the Praetorium provides a unique opportunity to walk through the layers of history, connecting with the city's origins as a vital Roman settlement. Combine your visit with nearby attractions in Cologne's vibrant city center for a comprehensive exploration of this historically rich area. Don't miss this chance to witness firsthand how the past has shaped the present in this beautiful city.
A brief summary to Römisches Praetorium
- Kleine Budengasse 1-3, Cologne, Innenstadt, 50667, DE
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the archaeological site.
- Check for temporary exhibitions or guided tours to enhance your understanding of the site's history and significance.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves some walking over uneven terrain.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Cologne Cathedral and the Romano-Germanic Museum for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Cologne Central Station (Kölner Hauptbahnhof), take the U-Bahn (subway) Line 16 or 18 towards either 'Südfriedhof' or 'Köln/Bonn Flughafen' and get off at 'Heumarkt' station. After exiting the station, head towards the Heumarkt square and walk straight towards the Old Town. Continue onto the Breite Straße and then take a left onto Kleine Budengasse. Römisches Praetorium will be located at Kleine Budengasse 1-3. A single journey ticket costs approximately €3.00.
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Walking
If you are near the Cologne City Hall (Rathaus), exit the Rathaus and head south towards the Heumarkt square. From Heumarkt, walk west along Breite Straße. After a short walk, take a left turn onto Kleine Budengasse. Römisches Praetorium will be on your left at Kleine Budengasse 1-3. This route is approximately 5 minutes on foot.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Cologne Central Station (Kölner Hauptbahnhof) to Römisches Praetorium will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €8-€15.
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Parking
Parking near the Römisches Praetorium is limited. Several parking garages are available in the city center, such as the Tiefgarage am Dom and the Parkhaus Große Budengasse. Hourly rates typically range from €3-€5, and daily rates can range from €20-€30. Be aware that traffic in the city center can be heavy, especially during peak tourist season.
Discover more about Römisches Praetorium
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