Colonius Tower

Colonius is Cologne’s telecommunications tower, a reinforced-concrete structure used for broadcasting and microwave links. It is a prominent vertical landmark in the city skyline.

The tower was constructed with visitor facilities planned, but public access has been limited for many years; it is not a routine observation destination like some other European TV towers. The structure is principally visible from around the inner city and riverfront.

Built for broadcasting purposes in the late 20th century, the tower was completed and put into service to carry television and radio transmissions; it has been managed by telecommunications operators since completion.

Colonius stands within the urban area of Cologne in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, and is readily visible from nearby neighborhoods and main roads in the northern inner city.

• Height and function: The tower measures about 266 metres in height and serves primarily as a telecommunications facility rather than a regular public attraction.

Colonius is north of the Rhine and reachable by public transit within Cologne. Regional buses and the Stadtbahn lines serve the area; consult local transit maps for the nearest stops.

• The tower is visible from several riverfront promenades; use public viewpoints for photos rather than attempting any now-closed observation areas.
• Combine the visit with a walk along the Rhine for good perspective shots that include the cathedral in the background.
• Check local listings for occasional public events in the tower's vicinity.