Ancient Rome in Cologne and Where to Find It
Cologne, Germany, may be known for our awesome cathedral, our Kölsch, and vibrant culture, but did you know it’s also home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins north of the Alps? If you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler looking to step back in time, Cologne’s Roman heritage is hiding in plain sight, or sometimes just hiding, Under streets, inside museums, and built right into the city’s foundations in Cologne, Ancient Rome is all over!
Here’s your go-to guide for discovering the top Roman ruins in Cologne that you absolutely shouldn’t miss as a history enthuiast here in Kölle (or CCAA for those who are in the know). Let’s check out Ancient Rome in Cologne!
The Praetorium – Cologne’s Roman Governor’s Palace
Tucked beneath the city hall lies the Praetorium, the former residence of the Roman governor of Germania Inferior. This sprawling archaeological site showcases remnants of an ancient palace complex, complete with mosaic floors, Roman columns, and structural walls that whisper stories from nearly 2,000 years ago.
Pro tip: The site is part of the larger MiQua (Jewish Museum in the Archaeological Quarter), which is currently under development. Once reopened, you’ll be able to visit both pieces of ancient Rome and our incredible Jewish Neighborhood from medieval times.
Ancient Roman Sewer System in Cologne – Walk Where Centurions Once Flushed
Yes, Cologne’s ancient sewer system might sound like a niche attraction, but it’s one of the most unique Roman experiences in the city. Built around the 1st century AD, the Roman sewer still exists beneath Cologne’s Old Town and occasionally opens for guided tours. A plus is that it doesn’t smell (as bad) anymore!
It’s a remarkable piece of engineering and gives insight into just how advanced Roman urban planning really was.
Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum)
This one is a little obvious (but unfortunately currently closed like the Praetorium). If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive dive into Roman Cologne, the Roman-Germanic Museum is your one-stop shop. Currently housed in a temporary location due to renovations, this museum boasts everything from Roman glassware to tools to pottery and more. Once reopened after the completion of the Via Culturalis Project, the museum will again show off its pride and joy, the stunning, famous Dionysus mosaic found on-site.
The museum’s permanent collection is a deep dive into daily Roman life along the Rhine and it’s perfect for both casual visitors and hardcore history buffs. Info on the temporary exhibit here.
A Tower from Ancient Rome in Cologne (Römerturm)
Hidden in plain sight, the Römerturm is a 2,000-year-old Roman watchtower and one of the best-preserved sections of Cologne’s ancient city wall. Located near the Belgian Quarter, this hidden gem still shows Roman stonework and a distinctive checkerboard pattern of brick and stone. While not a place to spend a long time, you’ll get to see a pretty incredible example of Roman Craftsmanship that has stood the test of time
It’s free to visit and a perfect photo-op on the way from the church towards our famous Belgian Quarter! Find it here.
Römergrab Weiden – A Roman Tomb on the Outskirts
For those willing to explore a bit beyond Cologne’s Altstadt, the Römergrab Weiden (Roman Tomb of Weiden) offers an incredible, well-preserved look at Roman burial customs and it’s one of the few accessible Roman tombs of its kind in Germany and the best preserved North of the Alps!
Dating back to the 2nd century AD, this underground burial chamber belonged to a wealthy Roman family and features original stone sarcophagi, inscriptions, and even remnants of wall painting. It’s managed by the Förderverein Römergrab Weiden, a volunteer organization that helps maintain and open it to the public during guided tours.
Other Spots in the Old Town!
Not far from the Roman Museum and just a stone’s throw from the Rhine, a section of the Roman Harbour Road has been excavated. Walk where the Romans did. You’ll see original Roman paving stones and foundations that once buzzed with trade and travelers nearly 2,000 years ago. That road helped put us here!
Go to Papa Joes for both the jazz and the Roman Mosaic in the floor.
Wanna see more of Ancient Rome in Cologne? Come join our walking tours daily to find some hidden spots we didn’t list here because we’re sneaky and want you to explore with us. You won’t regret it, we promise!
Written by Mike Clarke, a fan of looking at old rocks