:: Germany > CITIES > Cologne Cologne With just over a million inhabitants Cologne (Köln) is Germany's forth biggest city. The metropolis on the River Rhine can look back onto 2000 years of historical and cultural heritage. It spoils the visitor with exceptional architecture, world-class art collections and museums, excellent theatre and music performances and a unique cuisine and beer culture. Köln is the city of the churches. The magnificent and world-famous twin-spired cathedral "Kölner Dom" - completed only in 1880 - is Germany's biggest cathedral. But, already in medieval times, the "Holy Cologne" had twelve Romanesque churches. They were almost completely destroyed in World War II. In 1985, their reconstruction was completed.

Rhein River Bridge and Kölner Dom

Köln is Germany's capital of Rhenish Carnival which dates back to 1823. Traditionally, the "fifth season" is declared open at 11 minutes past eleven on the 11th of November! It culminates in the "three crazy days" in February, taking place from "Weiberfastnacht", the day on which women take control of the city to "Karnevalsdienstag" (Shrove Tuesday). Highlight of the street carnival is "Rosenmontag" (Rose Monday) when the city gets truely crazy and over a million spectators line the streets to watch the official parade of over 100 Cologne carnival associations. Normally, some 140 tons of sweets, 700.000 bars of chocolate and 300.000 bunch of flowers are being distributed to the crowd. Carnival ends the next day, on "Aschermittwoch" (Ash Wednesday). Some Highlights Cologne Cathedral The "Kölner Dom" with its soaring twin spires is Germany's biggest cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Construction of Cologne's distinctive symbol started in 1248, but, due to lack of funding, lasted until 1880. 509 steps in the South Tower lead up to a platform where one can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view. On the way one can have a look at the "Dicke Pitter" (Fat Peter), with a mass of 24 tons the world's largest working bell. Old Town and Rheingarten Meeting-place for locals and thousands of visitors every year. With narrow lanes and many traditional pubs. Whether you want to relax in the park along the Rhine called Rheingarten or enjoy a Kölsch in one of the typical breweries – it is worth while to take a look. Römisch-Germanisches Museum Right next to the Kölner Dom. One of the most impressive museums on Roman history worldwide. Schokoladen Museum Here, you will learn everything about chocolate-making – history, technology and samples on 3 stories in a stunning new building on the Rhine river followed by a live-production factory tour and chocolate tasting. Wallraf-Richartz-Museum Hosts of of the world's finest art collections, from medieval masters such as Rembrandt or Rubens to 19th century romanticists such as Monet, Van Gogh or Renoir.

Chocolate Museum

Inside the Cologne Cathedral

Carnival Session