Overstolzenhaus

The Overstolzenhaus is defined by its distinct stepped gables rising above the Rheingasse. Built around the year twelve-thirty, it stands as the only surviving Romanesque patrician house in Cologne. The building was constructed for the wealthy Overstolz merchant family, who used the ground floor for business and trade, while maintaining a large hall on the first floor for social gatherings and higher-level commerce. Four upper floors provided ample space for storing their trade goods near the Rhine river port.