Gürzenich Köln

The Gürzenich stands out as a thick, blocky fortress of gray stone, marked by two tall, pointed towers that flank its main entrance. Built in the mid-fifteenth century by the city's wealthy merchants, it served as a grand hall for feasts and state receptions. When the Holy Roman Emperor visited Cologne, he was hosted here instead of at the palace. Its heavy walls survived centuries of conflict, though the interior was entirely rebuilt after the massive air raids of nineteen forty-three.