St. Gereon's Basilica, Cologne

Out of the 12 Romanesque Churches in Cologne, St. Gereon Church is very unique. This church dates back to the period between the 11th and 13th centuries. The nave in St. Gereon’s Basilica is decagonal shaped and has a dome on top. Inside the church, you will find a variety of medieval mosaics, murals, and precious ancient relics. Historically this site is where a Roman soldier from Egypt, Saint Gereon was beheaded in the third century for his faith. It was in 380 AD that the Church of St. Gereon was first constructed. This oval shaped church is designed similar to a church in Rome called Minerva Medica.

In the year 1920, the pope elevated St. Gereon’s status to a Minor Basilica. Partially destroyed during World War II, this church was restored to its original glory like all the other churches in Cologne. The exterior of St. Gereon Church at the east features an apse and two east towers that are square shaped. This side overlooks a small park and a busy street. From here, do not miss out the view of St. Gereon’s sculpted head in the park. This sculpture was carved by Iskender Yediler in the year 2002. The western end of the church overlooks a plaza. At the northern porch from where you enter the church, there are two side chapels. Centered on a Pieta sculpture, the chapel on the right dates back to 1897 and features an apse vault. On this vault, you will find exquisite paintings of vines and cross. This is one of the ancient Romanesque churches in Cologne you must not miss on your trip to this city.

Why You Should Visit:
A wonderfully evocative church that looks awesome, especially when viewed for the first time.
It also makes a nice contrast architecturally to the Dom.