Cologne's Architectural Landmarks Walking Tour (Self Guided), Cologne

Around 75% of Cologne was destroyed by Allied bombing during World War II. Following such devastation, it meant that most of what was built immediately after the war came from the so-called “As quickly and cheaply as possible” school of architecture. Eventually, as the things settled, the architects were given the chance to build something that would really stand out.

Decades later, the city has enough notable buildings to sparkle interest, including some truly impressive remnants of the old days – survivors of the war, as well as new glass-and-steel architectural splendors. Here are some of the notable landmarks of Gothic, Neo-Romanesque and modernist architecture worth checking out in Cologne:

Hohenzollernbrücke (Hohenzollern Bridge) – an early 20th-century tiered-arch bridge from which you can enjoy stunning views of one of Europe’s greatest rivers, as well as the towers of Groß St. Martin Church and Cologne Cathedral;

Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral) – eclipses in size and grandeur all the other historic buildings in the city; often referred to as “a masterpiece of exceptional intrinsic value” (UNESCO World Heritage Sites) and one of the most breathtaking examples of Gothic architecture in Europe;

WDR Arcades – one of the architectural icons of the popular German architect Gottfried Bohm, a notable piece of steel and glasswork from the late 1980s;

Peek & Cloppenburg Weltstadthaus (Global City Building) – a spectacular edifice constructed by the famous architect Renzo Piano, showcasing a range of new sensations and perspectives;

Basilika St. Aposteln (Basilica of the Holy Apostles) – a construction started circa 1000 AD, noted for its single tower, approximately 219 feet tall.

For a more detailed acquaintance with these and other architecturally significant buildings in Cologne, take this self-guided walking tour.