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Museum · Colônia, Renânia do Norte-Vestfália
Domschatzkammer
The cathedral treasury, in medieval underground chambers next to the Dom, with reliquaries, crosses, goldsmithing and liturgical vestments from the 4th to the 20th century.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Domschatzkammer
The Domschatzkammer is the treasury of the cathedral of Colônia. It is on the north side of the Dom and the entrance is marked by a cube clad in dark bronze plates, opened in 2000. The collection is underground, in medieval vaulted rooms.
There are six rooms on three floors. They contain reliquaries, crosses, chalices, monstrances and vestments used in the liturgy, with pieces from the 4th to the 20th century. Some are still used for ceremonies, such as the large monstrance for the Corpus Christi procession and the Baroque reliquary of Santo Engelberto.
On the descent, the route reaches sections of the Roman city wall and an ancient Roman sewer channel, a reminder that the cathedral was built over the Roman town. It’s a good visit on a rainy day and for those who want to understand the Dom’s importance in the Middle Ages.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
Any time of day; it’s usually quieter early in the morning. It’s a good complement after climbing the tower.
How to get there
It’s on the north side of the cathedral, facing the central station, a few steps from the exit of the Köln Hauptbahnhof.
Tip
There is a combined ticket with the tower climb. The rooms are underground and accessed by stairs; those with mobility difficulties should confirm access in advance. The same baggage rule as the cathedral applies: only small bags.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Domschatzkammer
Is the treasury included in the cathedral ticket?
Not necessarily. The treasury has its own ticket, and there is a combined ticket with the tower climb. Check the options on the official website.
What are the most important things to see?
The medieval reliquaries, the large monstrance used at Corpus Christi, and the remains of the Roman wall at the lowest level.
Is it worth it for someone who has already visited the cathedral?
Yes: the pieces help explain the role of the cathedral and the Three Kings in the city's history, and the basement shows Roman Cologne.