Cologne’s City Hall, standing proudly in the heart of the Innenstadt district, is a remarkable mixture of architectural styles and structures. It’s home to the current seat of local government, housed in a complex that represents the artistic history of the region. Visit this eye-catching monument and marvel at the clash of designs melding to create one cohesive and impressive building.
Trace the different eras of local history from the exterior of the building. The oldest parts of the structure, in the heart of the hall, date back to the 14th century.
One of the most immediately striking features is the “Ratsturm” or City Hall Tower, an ornate, Gothic structure from the late 14th century that stands at 200 feet (61 meters) tall. Count the 130 stone statues that line the ridges of the octagonal and tetragonal floors. Watch the wooden face sculpture on the tower open its mouth and rudely stick out its tongue when the hour changes.
Wander along the edge of the building from the tower to find a remarkable Renaissance Loggia from the 1500s. These elegant arches replaced a medieval entrance to the hall and are widely celebrated as a typical example of architecture from the era. Step beneath two tiers of vaulted archways to enter the hall and see the interior.
Many of the rooms are now where legal proceedings take place, so entry is not possible, but you can still admire the atrium designed in the 20th-century modernist style. Enter the Hansasaal, the heart of the building and its oldest room. It was built in the 14th century although it was reconstructed after World War II. Check out the many sculptures around the walls.
Find the City Hall in the region of Cologne known as Innenstadt, in the center of the city. Walk here from other attractions: the Museum Ludwig is 5 minutes away while the Chocolate Museum is 15 minutes. The hall is open on weekdays, closing early on Fridays.
