The Heart of the City. The Cologne Cathedral is not only one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals and part of the World Heritage, but it is also the heart of the city. The numerous photographs in this picture book depict one of the largest churches in the world as a vibrant center of a bustling metropolis. We see the cathedral amidst the people through the changing seasons, experience it as an eternal construction site, during religious festivals, and at the Cologne Carnival. We feel the atmosphere during the sending out of the Star Singers, witness the cathedral being illuminated by a light show, and ascend to the roof of this architectural masterpiece. The images demonstrate that almost nothing happens in Cologne without the cathedral. The accompanying text analyzes the fascination that this church building exudes and presents its more than 700-year construction history and its artistic treasures. Photographer Csaba Peter Rakoczy and author Rainer Rudolph, who have reported for many years for the Cologne City Gazette, share their personal perspective on the cathedral here.