St. Maternus Church, Cologne

St. Maternus Church, also known as Old St. Maternus or the Kapellchen, stands on a raised point beside the Rhine. Its white walls, compact tower and dark roofs form a clear landmark above the riverbank. The earliest surviving structure probably dates from the 10th century, although archaeological finds suggest that an earlier Christian building may once have occupied the site.

The church began as a single-nave Romanesque building with a semicircular apse and an off-centre tower. A side aisle and Gothic windows were added in the 15th century, followed by further extensions in the 17th century. Severe damage during the Second World War required major reconstruction, completed in 1954. Inside are coloured windows by Conrad Schmidt and figures of the four Evangelists that once belonged to the later parish church.

Its riverside position has repeatedly exposed the building to flooding. Marks on the exterior record high-water events, including the major flood of 1925–26. The churchyard contains old gravestones and crosses, while a modern figure of Saint Maternus on the apse reflects his links to bishops and boatmen.