Organs of Cologne Cathedral

The organs of Cologne Cathedral form an ensemble of several large instruments, including the main organ in the nave from 1998 and another instrument in the transept from the 1950s. Each of these instruments has hundreds of pipes and different mechanical systems that together produce a wide range of sounds.

The transept instrument was restored between 1948 and 1956 after World War II, reflecting efforts to repair and reconstruct the cathedral following war damage. The later main organ in the nave was installed in 1998 using modern construction techniques.

The organs accompany daily worship services and create a spiritual sound environment for visitors and community members during these celebrations. They are central to shaping the musical character of religious moments in this sacred place.

The best chance to hear the organs is during Tuesday evening concerts, where you can experience the full power of the instruments. Visitors can also hear the music during regular worship services, where it fills the large space.

The large Gothic space has extreme reverberation times exceeding 8 seconds, which means each note lingers in the air and transforms the organ's sound into something otherworldly. This acoustic property makes the music here especially powerful and moving.