Basilica of the Holy Apostles, Minor basilica in Neumarkt, Cologne, Germany
The Basilica of the Holy Apostles is a Romanesque church in the heart of Cologne with a distinctive triple-apse eastern end and three towers that define its outline. The interior is structured by a central nave flanked by symmetrical side aisles that guide the eye toward the altar.
The church's foundation dates to 1020, a time when Cologne was expanding its religious and architectural network across the city. It stands as one of twelve Romanesque great churches that continue to shape the city's appearance today.
The church is named after the twelve apostles and reflects medieval religious devotion visible in the preserved treasures and artworks that visitors encounter inside. The interior furnishings tell of the spiritual importance this place held for the faithful across the centuries.
The church sits centrally between Neumarkt and Hahnenstrasse, within easy walking distance of the old city's shopping district. Visitors should keep in mind that religious services may affect access at certain times.
Unlike other Romanesque churches in Cologne, this one has two eastern towers in addition to the western tower, a rare architectural feature for the period. This three-tower composition creates an appearance distinctly different from the city's other eleven Romanesque churches.
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