Background

St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen: A Journey Through Cologne's Romanesque Past

Discover Cologne's Romanesque soul at St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen: where ancient foundations meet medieval artistry and enduring faith.

5

The Pfarrbüro St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen serves as the administrative heart for two of Cologne's most significant Romanesque churches. St. Maria im Kapitol, the larger of the two, stands on the foundations of a Roman temple and boasts a unique trefoil design inspired by the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. Its imposing structure and historical artifacts, including a Romanesque pictorial door and a forked cross, offer a glimpse into Cologne's rich medieval past. St. Maria Lyskirchen, though smaller, is renowned for its well-preserved 13th-century frescoes and the 'Schiffermadonna' (Sailor's Madonna), reflecting its historical connection to the Rhine's maritime community. Together, these churches represent a cornerstone of Cologne's architectural and religious heritage, inviting visitors to explore centuries of art, history, and spirituality within the city's vibrant Innenstadt.

A brief summary to Pfarrbüro St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen

  • Marienpl. 19, Cologne, Innenstadt, 50676, DE

Local tips

  • Visit both churches to appreciate the contrast between the grand scale of St. Maria im Kapitol and the intimate beauty of St. Maria Lyskirchen's frescoes.
  • Check the church's schedule for services or concerts, as experiencing the space with music can be particularly moving.
  • Take time to explore the Kapitol-Viertel surrounding St. Maria im Kapitol, as it offers a glimpse into Cologne's historic heart.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Köln Hauptbahnhof (Cologne Central Station), take any S-Bahn line (S1, S2, S3, S4, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S13, S16, S19) one stop to Köln Heumarkt. From there, it's approximately a 5-minute walk to Marienplatz. Alternatively, from Köln Heumarkt, take bus line 132 and exit at station Blaubach, which is only a minute away from Marienplatz. A single ticket within Cologne (Tarifzone 1b) costs approximately €3.20.

  • Walking

    From the Heumarkt, walk southwest towards the Rhine River. Turn right onto Mühlengasse, then left onto Blaubach. Marienplatz will be on your right, with the Pfarrbüro located at Marienpl. 19. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and offers views of the historic city center.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Köln Hauptbahnhof to Marienplatz will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €10-€15. Be sure to specify 'Marienplatz' as your destination.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to Marienplatz is not recommended due to its location within a pedestrian zone. However, several parking garages are located nearby. Consider parking at Q-Park Börsenplatz or Q-Park Quincy/Breite Straße (ehem. Du Mont Carré). Hourly parking rates typically range from €2.20, with daily maximums varying between €7 (Monday-Thursday) and €12 (Friday-Saturday), and €3 on Sundays.

Unlock the Best of Pfarrbüro St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Pfarrbüro St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen

The Pfarrbüro St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen acts as the central office for two remarkable churches that embody Cologne's rich Romanesque heritage. These aren't just places of worship; they are time capsules, each with a unique story etched into their very foundations. St. Maria im Kapitol, the larger and arguably more imposing of the two, stands proudly in the Kapitol-Viertel, its name a direct nod to the Roman temple that once occupied the site. Imagine, in the first century, a grand temple dedicated to the Capitoline Triad – Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva – standing where the church now rises. This temple, built to commemorate Cologne's elevation to a colonia, was a significant landmark in Roman Cologne. Today, remnants of that temple form the very foundation upon which St. Maria im Kapitol rests, a tangible link to the city's ancient past. The story of the church itself begins in the early Middle Ages. Legend has it that Plectrudis, the wife of Pepin of Herstal, founded a convent on the site in the 7th century. However, the construction of the current Romanesque basilica began around 1040, under Abbess Ida, granddaughter of Emperor Otto II. The design was inspired by the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, resulting in a distinctive trefoil layout with three apses at the east end. This architectural choice was groundbreaking for its time and has made St. Maria im Kapitol a significant example of German church architecture of the Salian dynasty. Over the centuries, St. Maria im Kapitol has undergone numerous alterations and expansions, each leaving its mark on the church's character. The nave was given Early Gothic rib vaults around 1240, while the eastern part was vaulted and the east apse rebuilt in a Late Romanesque style in the 12th century. These additions reflect the evolving architectural styles and the changing tastes of the times. One of the church's most prized possessions is the Romanesque pictorial door, dating back to around 1060. This 4.85-meter high and 2.48-meter wide door is adorned with wooden reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. Originally consisting of 26 panels, 25 remain today, offering a rare glimpse into the artistic and religious sensibilities of the 11th century. The door, once located at the northern apse, was moved inside for preservation in 1930 and remains a highlight for visitors. Beyond the pictorial door, St. Maria im Kapitol houses a wealth of other treasures. The forked cross, dating back to before 1312, is a particularly expressive crucifix. The Renaissance rood screen, recently restored, once again graces the basilica. In the Salvator Chapel, sandstone sculptures of Christ Salvator and Mary from 1465 can be admired. These artifacts, along with countless other details, contribute to the church's rich and layered history. In contrast, St. Maria Lyskirchen, though smaller, possesses its own unique charm and historical significance. Situated in the southern part of Cologne's Altstadt (Old Town), near the Rhine River, it is the smallest of Cologne's twelve Romanesque churches. Its history stretches back to the early Christian period, with legends attributing its founding to Bishop Maternus in the 4th century. The first documented mention of a chapel on the site dates to 948, described as a private church founded by a nobleman named Lysolvus or Lisolfus, from whom the name 'Lyskirchen' is derived. The present building largely dates from 1210-1220, with some later Gothic additions. It takes the form of a three-aisled basilica, closely modeled after St. Kunibert, another of Cologne's larger Romanesque churches. Although it sustained some damage during the Second World War, the vaults of the nave and transept remained largely intact, allowing for the rediscovery of the church's original frescoes. These 13th-century ceiling paintings are what truly set St. Maria Lyskirchen apart. Rediscovered in the 19th century, they are unique in Cologne and depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments. The vibrant colors and intricate details offer a captivating glimpse into medieval artistry and religious beliefs. The church also houses the 'Schiffermadonna' (Seaman's Madonna), a wooden statue from 1420, reflecting the church's historical connection to the Rhine's seafaring community. For centuries, sailors and fishermen have sought solace and blessings at this church, solidifying its place in Cologne's maritime history. Together, St. Maria im Kapitol and St. Maria Lyskirchen, served by the Pfarrbüro, offer a compelling journey through Cologne's Romanesque past. From the grand scale and historical artifacts of St. Maria im Kapitol to the intimate setting and stunning frescoes of St. Maria Lyskirchen, these churches provide a profound and enriching experience for anyone seeking to connect with the city's rich cultural and religious heritage. They stand as testaments to Cologne's enduring spirit, inviting visitors to explore the layers of history, art, and faith that have shaped this remarkable city.

Popular Experiences near Pfarrbüro St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen

Popular Hotels near Pfarrbüro St. Maria im Kapitol & St. Maria Lyskirchen

Select Currency