Cathedral Treasury

Kölner Dom Schatzkammer - Medieval Treasures & Sacred Relics

One of Europe's Finest Collections

Discover Priceless Medieval Art

The Cologne Cathedral Treasury houses an extraordinary collection of sacred art spanning over 1,000 years, including reliquaries, manuscripts, vestments, and liturgical objects of immense historical and artistic value.

€8 / €4

Adults / Children (6-17)
Family ticket: €20

Daily 10-6 PM

Open every day
Last entry: 5:30 PM

45-60 Min

Recommended visit time
Audio guide available

Treasury Highlights

Shrine of the Three Kings

The most famous treasure in the cathedral - a golden reliquary said to contain the relics of the Three Wise Men (Magi). Created around 1200 AD, it's the largest reliquary shrine in the Western world.

  • Made of gilded bronze and silver
  • Decorated with 1,000+ gems and pearls
  • Located behind the high altar

Gero Cross (Gero Crucifix)

Dating from around 970 AD, this is the oldest large-scale crucifix north of the Alps and a masterpiece of Ottonian art. It depicts Christ with remarkable realism for its time.

  • Over 1,000 years old
  • Carved from oak wood
  • Visible in the cathedral interior

Milan Madonna

A stunning wooden sculpture from around 1290, depicting the Virgin Mary holding the Christ child. This Gothic masterpiece shows exquisite craftsmanship and detail.

  • Original medieval paint preserved
  • High Gothic style
  • Richly decorated with gold leaf

St. Peter's Staff

A ceremonial crosier (bishop's staff) from the 13th century, richly decorated with precious stones and enamels. Used during important liturgical ceremonies.

  • Adorned with sapphires and emeralds
  • Intricate goldwork
  • Still used on special occasions

Illuminated Manuscripts

Rare medieval manuscripts with stunning hand-painted illustrations, including Gospel books, psalters, and liturgical texts from the 9th to 15th centuries.

  • Hillinus Codex (11th century)
  • Gold leaf illuminations
  • Priceless historical documents

Sacred Vestments

Exquisite collection of bishops' robes, chasubles, and ceremonial garments embroidered with gold thread and adorned with religious imagery.

  • Dating from 13th-18th centuries
  • Silk brocades and gold embroidery
  • Worn by archbishops of Cologne

Visitor Information

Location & Access

  • • Entrance via north side of cathedral
  • • Follow signs to "Schatzkammer"
  • • Located in medieval vaults
  • • Accessible via stairs (no elevator)

Tickets & Prices

Photography Rules

  • • No photography allowed inside treasury
  • • Protect delicate artifacts from light
  • • Sketching is permitted
  • • Photos allowed in cathedral interior

Audio Guides

  • • Available in German, English, French
  • • Included in ticket price
  • • Detailed explanations of artifacts
  • • Duration: 45-60 minutes

Treasury FAQ

What is in the Cologne Cathedral Treasury?

The treasury contains over 1,000 years of sacred art including the Shrine of the Three Kings, medieval reliquaries, illuminated manuscripts, liturgical vestments, precious chalices, and ceremonial objects made from gold, silver, and precious stones.

Is the Cologne Cathedral treasury worth visiting?

Absolutely! It's one of Europe's most important collections of medieval religious art. The €8 ticket provides access to priceless artifacts you won't see anywhere else, with audio guides included.

How long does it take to see the cathedral treasury?

Plan for 45-60 minutes to properly explore the collection. The audio guide provides detailed information about each artifact. Combined with the cathedral interior and tower, allow 2-3 hours total.

Can I see the Shrine of the Three Kings in the treasury?

The actual Shrine of the Three Kings is located behind the high altar in the cathedral interior (free to view). The treasury contains related artifacts, reliquaries, and historical information about the shrine.

Are there relics in the Cologne Cathedral treasury?

Yes, the treasury houses numerous sacred relics in ornate reliquaries, including relics of saints, fragments of the True Cross, and other venerated objects from medieval pilgrimage traditions.

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