Cologne Cathedral Window, Cologne

The Cologne Cathedral Window is a stunning piece of modern art housed within one of Germany's most revered Gothic structures, the Cologne Cathedral. Situated in the heart of Cologne, this window is a relatively new addition to the cathedral, having been unveiled in 2007. It replaced the plain glass that was installed after the original window was destroyed during World War II.

The window, designed by renowned German artist Gerhard Richter, is a dazzling array of 11,500 squares of glass in 72 different colors, arranged randomly within the tall, pointed arch of the south transept. The design does not depict a scene or figures, as is traditional in church stained glass, but instead creates a mesmerizing, pixel-like pattern that plays with light and color. This abstract design has been subject to various interpretations, from a statement on the nature of randomness and order to a reflection of the multifaceted nature of faith.

Spanning an impressive height of around 20 meters, the Cologne Cathedral Window captivates visitors with its vibrant hues and the way it illuminates the interior with a kaleidoscope of light. The window's modernist approach contrasts with the cathedral's medieval architecture, offering a unique blend of the old and the new.

As one of the most visited landmarks in Germany, Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom as it is known in German, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds a significant place in the city's cultural and historical landscape. The addition of Richter's window adds to the cathedral's rich tapestry of artistry that spans centuries.