St. Severin
A historic Catholic church in Cologne, St. Severin boasts Romanesque architecture with Gothic touches and houses the relics of a revered bishop.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful visit
St. Severin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful visit

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Catholic church in Cologne, St. Severin boasts Romanesque architecture with Gothic touches and houses the relics of a revered bishop.
"A beautiful gothic-style Cologne cathedral inside the old town perimeters and near one of the medieval city gates."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the church and climbing the tower's 540 steps.
🚫 Avoid Sunday Mornings
Only a small part of the church is accessible during Sunday services.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Romanesque Architecture
Interior
Marvel at the ancient Romanesque structure, with foundations dating back to the 10th century.

Gothic Interior Touches
Interior
Despite its Romanesque roots, later centuries added Gothic elements, creating a unique blend of styles.

Tower Viewpoint
Bell Tower
Ascend 540 steps for panoramic views of the surrounding city.
Shrine of St. Severin
High Choir
See the 1819 shrine housing the bones of the Holy Bishop of Cologne.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for St. Severin
Climb for the Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the church and climbing the tower's 540 steps.
🚫 Avoid Sunday Mornings
Only a small part of the church is accessible during Sunday services.
📸 Capture the History
The blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture offers stunning photo opportunities.
📍 Explore the Old Town
St. Severin is located in a charming medieval quarter of Cologne.
Notre Dame area - things to do
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the church and climbing the tower's 540 steps.
🚫 Avoid Sunday Mornings
Only a small part of the church is accessible during Sunday services.
📸 Capture the History
The blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture offers stunning photo opportunities.
📍 Explore the Old Town
St. Severin is located in a charming medieval quarter of Cologne.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. Severin for its impressive Romanesque architecture and the blend of styles with Gothic elements. The rewarding tower climb and its location within Cologne's historic old town are frequently highlighted. Some visitors note that access can be limited on Sundays, and the tower climb requires a good level of fitness.
"A beautiful gothic-style Cologne cathedral inside the old town perimeters and near one of the medieval city gates. The church is well worth a visit."
Michael Stemmeler
"Impressive old church in the South of the old city centre of cologne. Since cologne was heavily bombarded in wwII it is nice you see this quarter still representing the more mediaval appearance of the city . Mice quarter to visit and a beautiful church"
Joost Francien Verbaan
"Really beautiful; a pity that on Sunday you can visit only a small part.
The view from the the top of the tower deserves to climb 540 steps"
Davide Quattrini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Severin is located in the southern part of Cologne's old city center. You can reach it via public transport, with several tram and bus lines stopping nearby. Walking from the main train station is also an option, taking about 20-30 minutes through the historic streets.
Parking in the old town can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or walk to St. Severin to avoid parking hassles.
From Cologne Cathedral, you can take a pleasant walk south through the old town, which takes around 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, several tram lines run from the Dom/Hbf station towards the south, with stops close to the church.
The closest major transport hub is Cologne Hauptbahnhof (main train station). From there, you can walk or take local transport. Several tram lines also serve stations within walking distance of the church.
Yes, using GPS navigation apps on your smartphone is highly recommended to find St. Severin church, especially if you are unfamiliar with the city. Search for 'Severinstraße' or 'Severinskirche'.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to St. Severin church is generally free, as it is a place of worship. However, donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep.
The opening hours can vary, especially on Sundays when only a small part may be accessible due to services. It's best to check the official church website or local listings for the most up-to-date information.
You can visit St. Severin on a Sunday, but be aware that access might be limited to certain areas due to religious services. For a full exploration, weekdays are recommended.
Information regarding an admission fee for the tower climb is not consistently available. It's advisable to inquire on-site or check local guides for current details and any associated costs.
Photography is usually permitted inside churches for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services. Some areas might have specific restrictions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
St. Severin is one of Cologne's twelve large Romanesque churches, founded as a cemetery chapel in the 4th century. It houses the relics of St. Severin, the third bishop of Cologne, and has undergone continuous expansion and changes over centuries.
The church showcases a blend of architectural styles. Its original construction is Romanesque, but later centuries introduced Gothic elements, giving the interior a more Gothic impression.
Absolutely! The tower climb involves 540 steps, but the rewarding panoramic views of Cologne from the top are considered well worth the effort by many visitors.
Inside, you can find the shrine of St. Severin in the high choir, containing the saint's bones, and a 'Jesus on the plague cross.' Archaeological finds beneath the church include Frankish, Roman, and Carolingian foundations.
For a basic visit, allow about 1-2 hours. If you plan to climb the tower and explore thoroughly, you might need 2-3 hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its historic architecture, is great for wide shots. Inside, focus on the blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements, the stained glass windows, and the shrine of St. Severin. The view from the tower is also a must-capture.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but avoid using flash, especially during services. Be respectful of worshippers and the sanctity of the place.
Lighting inside can be dim, typical of old churches, with natural light filtering through stained glass. Consider bringing a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod if permitted for longer exposures.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around religious sites due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for exterior shots. Midday light can be harsh, but it also highlights the architectural details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring History of St. Severin
Beneath the current structure lie archaeological treasures, including Roman, Frankish, and Carolingian foundations, offering a glimpse into the layers of history that define this sacred site. The veneration of St. Severin, the third bishop of Cologne, is central to the church's identity, with his relics housed in a shrine within the high choir.
This rich historical tapestry makes St. Severin not just a place of worship but a living museum, reflecting Cologne's deep past. Visitors can feel the weight of centuries and appreciate the continuous evolution of this sacred space.
Climbing the Tower: A Rewarding Challenge
As you ascend, you'll get a closer look at the church's structure and the surrounding cityscape. The climb offers a different appreciation for the scale and grandeur of the church and its place within Cologne.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a steady climb. The experience provides a fantastic opportunity for photography and a memorable way to cap off your visit to St. Severin.
Architectural Fusion: Romanesque Meets Gothic
However, over the centuries, the church underwent transformations that introduced Gothic elements. This evolution means that while the core is Romanesque, the interior often evokes a more Gothic atmosphere, creating a visually dynamic and historically rich space. This blend is a key feature that draws visitors interested in architectural history.
Exploring St. Severin allows you to trace these historical layers, appreciating how different periods contributed to its current form. The interplay between the robust Romanesque and the soaring Gothic styles makes for a unique and engaging visual experience.
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