Finials of Cologne Cathedral, Concrete sculpture in Cologne, Germany
The concrete model of the southern finial of Cologne Cathedral stands on the Domplatte, about 50 metres in front of the west façade between Unter Fettenhennen and the cathedral square. It reproduces the original at a scale of 1:1: almost 10 metres high, 5 metres wide and weighing 35 tonnes, cast from 13 prefabricated parts of dark grey reinforced concrete. A central shaft carries two leaf wreaths, and the base bears explanatory panels in 15 languages.
The original finials were installed in 1880 atop both cathedral towers and have shaped the city's skyline since then. This replica was created to bring the monumental architecture closer to people at eye level.
The replica displays Gothic features that match the original work high above on the cathedral towers. Visitors can study here the craftsmanship required for such towering spire construction.
The replica stands directly on a public square and is accessible around the clock. Information panels surrounding the work explain its construction and significance in multiple languages.
The concrete model was cast from 13 prefabricated parts of dark grey through-coloured reinforced concrete, not 24; the 24 stones and 37 cubic metres belong to the natural-stone originals on the towers. Most parts are hollow, with walls 15 to 20 centimetres thick, to save weight. The assembled finial weighs 35 tonnes, less than half its stone prototype.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 93,576 contributors worldwide.
