Cologne Cathedral, Cologne, Germany

One of the world's great religious buildings and Germany's largest gothic cathedral, Cologne Cathedral is both the geographic and spiritual centre of the city. Construction of the cathedral took centuries. Work began in 1248 to build an edifice to house relics of the three Magi brought to Cologne in 1164. The chancel, south tower, and north-side aisles were completed in the beginning of the 16th century but then not much happened for 300 years. Finally in 1880, it was completed. Fortunately, Cologne Cathedral was relatively untouched by the war.

Among the attraction inside is the Shrine of the Three Magi crafted in gold and silver in the form of a triple-naved basilica. Relief motifs illustrate the life of Christ and the Apostles. Around the chancel stand nine chapels containing religious artworks. You can climb to the top of the south tower for panoramic views of the city and environs.