St. Gereon: A Romanesque Masterpiece in Cologne
Explore St. Gereon Basilica in Cologne, a mesmerizing blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and ancient Roman architecture, steeped in legend and religious history, showcasing its decagonal dome.
St. Gereon is one of Cologne's twelve Romanesque churches, distinguished by its unique decagonal dome built upon the remains of a 4th-century Roman structure. Dedicated to Saint Gereon, a Roman soldier martyred for his Christian faith, the basilica showcases a blend of architectural styles spanning centuries. Visitors can explore the ancient crypt, admire medieval mosaics and murals, and contemplate the 'Blood Column,' steeped in legend. Its remarkable acoustics also make it a sought-after venue for concerts, especially during the summer months. A visit to St. Gereon offers a captivating journey through Cologne's religious and architectural history, solidifying its place as a significant landmark in the city.
A brief summary to St. Gereon
- Gereonskloster 2, Cologne, Innenstadt, 50670, DE
- +492214745070
- Visit website
Local tips
- Attend a summer concert to experience the basilica's exceptional acoustics.
- Look for the small remaining section of the original Roman mosaic floor.
- Visit the crypt to see the sarcophagus believed to contain the relics of St. Gereon.
- Find the 'Blood Column' and learn about the legends surrounding it.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the basilica's history and architectural details.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Köln Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), take the subway line 5 towards Ossendorf to Appellhofplatz station. The journey takes approximately 1 minute, with trains departing every 15 minutes. From Appellhofplatz, St. Gereon is a short 3-minute walk, heading north along Gereonskloster street. A single ticket costs approximately €3. Alternatively, take bus 171 from Breslauer Platz/Hbf to Unter Sachsenhausen, which is a 4 minute ride, and then a 2 minute walk to the church. A single ticket costs approximately €3.
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Walking
From the city center (e.g., Cologne Cathedral), St. Gereon is approximately a 12-minute walk. Head north, following Domhof street, then turn left onto Unter Fettenhennen. Continue onto Gereonsstrasse, and then turn right onto Gereonskloster. The church will be on your left.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Köln Hauptbahnhof to St. Gereon takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay approximately €9-12. Ask the driver to drop you off at Gereonskloster 2.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that parking near St. Gereon is limited. There are parking garages in the area, such as the Q-Park Maastrichter Straße, about a 5-minute walk from the basilica. Hourly rates are approximately €3, with a daily maximum of around €25. Be aware of Cologne's Low Emission Zone; ensure your vehicle meets the requirements or park at a Park and Ride (P+R) lot outside the zone and use public transport for the final leg.
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