The majestic structure is the largest Gothic cathedral in Germany. Construction was begun in 1248 on the site of several earlier churches to house the relics of the three Magi brought to Cologne in 1164 by Archbishop Reinald von Dassel, chancellor to Frederick Barbarossa. After the completion of the chancel, south tower, and north-side aisles (around 1500), however, work was halted and not resumed until 1823. In 1880, the great 632-year enterprise was completed, and unlike many time-consuming constructions that change styles in midstream, the final result was in the Gothic style, true to the original plans.
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Hauptportal |
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outside the south entrance |
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