Due to the threat of terrorism, increased security measures continue to apply in Cologne Cathedral. The cathedral will remain closed outside of church services until New Year’s Day.
The cathedral chapter and the Cologne police have taken additional protective measures for the cathedral until New Year’s Day. Church services and confessions should still be possible after security checks, the Cologne police announced on Tuesday afternoon.
In most cases, tourist visits are not allowed – there should be no roof tours, tours of the excavations or visits to the treasury and the viewing platform. However, already agreed interior tours will take place. There is also increased caution with a view to New Year’s Eve.
Alternative way to light candles
According to the epd news agency, how the Cologne police’s security measures will work on site will be determined on a daily basis. So far it has remained quiet around the cathedral.
Because it is not possible to light candles in the cathedral due to the current security situation, Cologne Cathedral is offering an alternative option, with support from the Cologne police and the operators of the Christmas market at the cathedral. A Christmas market stall with some candle benches from the cathedral was set up next to St. Peter’s portal on December 26th. Candles can be lit there for private concerns or as a sign of peace for the world.
Possible attack plan by an Islamist group
The background to the protective measures is that, according to ARD information, security authorities have indications of a possible attack plan by an Islamist group on Cologne Cathedral and one Church received in Vienna. According to the Cologne police, the information related to New Year’s Eve, but security precautions had already been increased for the Christmas celebrations.
The police have been checking visitors to the cathedral since Christmas Eve. On Saturday evening, the police had already searched the cathedral with sniffer dogs, but said they found nothing unusual.
Woelki thanks worshipers and security forces
Cologne Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki thanked those attending the service for “not allowing themselves to be frightened and frightened, but for coming here courageously” despite the situation. Among them was the mayor of Cologne, Henriette Reker (independent).
Woelki also thanked the police officers who had worked “continuously and tirelessly” so that visitors “can celebrate Christmas here without fear and anxiety.” He was very sorry that many security guards who had wanted to spend Christmas with their families had to go on duty unexpectedly.
Our sources:
- Cologne police
- dpa
- epd
- ARD terrorism experts