Cologne

Rathaus

  Rathausplatz      +49 221 22 10     more than a year ago
Germany's oldest Rathaus (town hall) was first mentioned some time between 1135 and 1152. The current building dates from the 14th century, with additions made over the centuries. The original 61m Gothic tower dates from 1414 and the impressive loggia, the main entrance, was added in 1573. WWII saw most of the building destroyed with only the loggia surviving. Rebuilding began at the end of the war, and slowly the Rathaus was restored to its former glory, a task that took until 1995 to complete. The oldest preserved part of the building is the Hansesaal, which dates from around 1330. The Hansesaal gets its name from a gathering in the room in 1367 by members of the Hanseatic League who decided to wage war against King Waldemar of Denmark. The tracery and decorative figures on the north and south face of the wooden vaulted hall are one of the impressive achievements of the secular late Gothic period. Guided tours are available and should be arranged in advance.

Tram stop

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