STEVENSKERK - ST. STEPHEN'S CHURCH

Blessed by Cologne's auxiliary bishop Albertus Magnus, this Romanesque-Gothic church is the city's largest and oldest: construction began around 1254 and was completed in 1272. The oldest part of the church dates back to the ^13th century, while the choir and radiating chapel were added in the ^15th century. The church's square tower is topped by an octagonal bulbous bell tower housing a carillon. A Catholic basilica from 1254 to 1591, it was then appropriated by the iconoclastic reformers, who destroyed the images of Christ and adapted the church to their cult. During the bombardment of February 22, 1944, the church suffered severe damage, leading to the collapse of the tower. After the war, the church was completely restored and reopened to the public in 1969.

Highlights include the König organ (1776), renowned for its exceptional sound and considered one of the finest in Europe. An organist plays regularly during opening hours, offering an unforgettable aural experience.

You'll also marvel at the 14 ^17th-century copper candlesticks (1640), donated by trade guilds. These donations were a godsend for the town, which didn't have the financial means to invest in such chandeliers to light the faithful. The church houses the body of Catherine de Bourbon (1440-1469). Finally, from the top of the tower, you can admire a superb panorama of the city.