The Colorful Stained Glass Windows Inside Cologne Cathedral
The stained glass windows inside Cologne Cathedral are a kaleidoscope of colors that visitors should not miss. Yes, I know, every European cathedral has a couple of stained glass windows, and that’s why you should notice them. They might look the same to you, but if you take a closer look, you’ll find the difference in the details of each of them.

The South-facing Stained Glass Window
This window is designed by the famed, contemporary local artist Gerhard Richter. Aside from the fact that it’s a really magnificent window, it is hounded by controversy. It is said that Cardinal Joachim Meisner, the city’s Archbishop, was opposed to the idea of having stained glass. However, let it be known that he was not against contemporary art in itself, but he wanted more symbolic representations of 20th-century martyrs or saints as opposed to abstract ones. And when the glass window was unveiled, guess what, the Archbishop did not show up. But, of course, the Church has a reason – it conflicted with a previously-arranged trip. 😉

The Stained Glass Windows Inside Cologne Cathedral
I took a lot of photos of these windows, and I don’t anymore remember which side of the cathedral you can see them. Fortunately, you can find a map of all these windows here.
Take note that many of these stained glass windows are really, really, really ancient.
Stain Glass Window of Nativity (1507)

Well, of course, you can easily see the birth of Christ in this panel. Can you guess where Moses is? Find the burning bush. 😉
Stained Glass Window of Lamentation (1847)

The scene reminds me of Michelangelo’s Pieta at the Vatican.
The Adoration of the Magi (1300)

You can find this right at the center of the church but behind the altar.
Children of Cologne Window

This stained glass window was made through the effort of the children of Cologne, who collected financial donations. The scenes depict the children of the Old and New Testaments. Bernhard Kloss designed the window.
The window of Pentecost (1848)

On the day of the Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended – and the Church was officially founded.
The window of the Three Holy Kings (1507)

And the Three Wise Men came with their gifts.
St. Peter and the Tree of Jesse (1509)

Hmmmnnnn… I’m not really sure who Jesse is. 😉
The Adoration of the Magi Window (1846 & 1300)

Related: Stained Glass Windows Inside Notre Dame in Paris

I reckon about three or more stained glass windows depict the Three Kings. As you probably know, behind the altar in this cathedral lies the mortal remains of the Three Wise Men.
Johannes Klein Window (1884)

Window to the Life of Christ

Looking at the window above, you’ll definitely identify the scenes from the life of Christ.
Where to stay in Cologne
I stayed at Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft. You can book it via Booking.com, Expedia, and HostelWorld.
Though it is around 30-40 minutes walk to the Cathedral, I love it here because the beds are comfortable. Each bunk had its own curtains so you could have your own privacy. It’s clean, and the staff members are friendly. I was even allowed to check in early because the bed/room was already available. Or maybe, they just saw my tired eyes, and I really needed a rest. 😀 Since the hostel is around the university area, cheap bars are on every corner. There are a host of restaurants and grocery stores, too.
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