Well, if I get you right, you tried activating the runes?!
But, in order to open the door, you need to place them on the pedestals, by dropping them off next to the right colour (Shift+LMouse) and then bringing them into position on the pillar. (rune 1 on the red, rune 2 on the green, etc...)
When you're done, the passage should open.
Hope, I could help you
