VIII. Gay Games Cologne 2010

Another new museum for Cologne – diocesan museum St. Kolumba

A large section of the historical old town Cologne was buried beneath ash and rubble during the bombing of World War II. After the war, some hideous buildings were hoisted in order to create living and working space. But there were also ruins that stayed that way over 50 years, like for example the gothic monastery St. Kolumba. Later, the renowned Swiss architect Peter Zumthor presented a modern concept, which realization turned out to be very simple from the outside. When you enter the building, which was finished in 2007, you gasp in astonishment. Zumthor achieved to create a building that can only bring admiration. The old monastery church was rebuilt the ruins were kept as they were standing. You walk on ridges through the old church room, which is drenched in a fantastic light. This sacral room doesn’t appear oppressive but fascinating. Even the stairway leading to the upper stories aims to an effect. Simple, almost serious, appear these abrupt climbing stairs. The new museum rooms, that exude a totally new cultural experience, were set up in the upper stories. What fascinates more – the exhibits or the premises? Particularly worthwhile: the terrace, which is oriented to the dome and offers an interesting, new perspective.

 http://www.kolumba.de/?language=eng