Cologne, Germany

​Explore Cologne, Germany, as you sail through history.

​One of the oldest cities in Germany, and currently the 4th largest, Cologne, has been drawing visitors since 50 A.D., when it was officially founded. As your cruise ship docks Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO world heritage site, is already visible soaring above the city skyline. 

​From ruins uncovered after World War II, there is evidence of a Christian church in this location as early as the 4th century. 

​The plans were drawn, and the foundation laid for the current cathedral in1248. Six hundred years later it was completed.  Built in sections so that the cathedral could be used, by 1560 about 90% of the total planned building had a roof, including temporary roofs over the nave and transept. In 1842, with growing romantic enthusiasm for the middle ages coupled with the financial support of the Prussian Court after a gap of almost 300 years construction resumed on the transept portion of the cathedral. Completed by 1880, for four years it had the distinction of being the world’s tallest building.

​Inside the cathedral, enshrined in an elaborately carved ornamental gold tomb are the purported remains of the Three Wise Men, The centerpiece of this amazing cathedral, the relics were given to the Archbishop of Cologne in 1164 by the Holy Roman Emperor Fredrick Barbarossa. 

Built in both the Gothic and neo gothic styles, this gem attracts over 20,000 visitors a year. Free to visit, summer hours are from 6am until 10pm.  A separate admission applies for the treasury, full of golden icons from the churches history, and the tower, with its bird’s eye view of the city. Guided tours are available 10am to 2:30 Monday through Saturday in English for 7 euro. http://www.colognecathedral.net/History-of-Cologne-Cathedral.html
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​Outside the cathedral, melodies ring out from street performers and various characters, some spray-painted head to toe, others in authentic period costumes, beckon you over to take photos with them, for a fee. 

​During the war over 72% of the city was destroyed, reducing the historic section to rubble. Rebuilt in the original style, a stroll along the cobblestone streets, through the old town, reveals many charming multi-hued buildings. Most were constructed with storage spaces above and the lower floors were devoted to shops.  Today many of the buildings have been converted into pubs, restaurants and shops.  Numbers prominently displayed on the buildings face indicate the year of construction and not the address.  Addresses historically featured images of the owner’s occupation, rather than numbers.  Today you can still see a whale prominently displayed, on the side of the building where a whaler once lived. 

​Famous for Koelnischwasser, or eau de Cologne, fragrance has been produced here since 1709. Used liberally by Napoleon, in a time when bathing was uncommon, you can take home a bottle as a souvenir

​Primarily a modern city, Cologne has a long and storied past. The Cologne Cathedral, while struck 14 times during Allied bombing, was one of the one of few buildings left standing after World War II.  And was completely reconstructed by 1965. Perfect for a short stop on a relaxing river cruise, enjoy the modern vibe of this historic marvel.