Cologne Cathedral

In 13 century the citizens of Cologne faced with task of new cathedral construction. These were times of flowering for the city and Cologne’s authorities decided to build largest Cathedral in Germany.

But were other circumstances which had instigated the Cologne’s authorities to start this construction. Archbishop of Cologne and the commander of the Emperor Frederick Barbarossa - Reynald von Dassel – got a precious gift, the remains of the Three Magi or Three Kings, from the hands of Emperor. By that Barbarossa thanked Dassel for his help in the Italian Campaign.

Facade of Cathedral

Before these remains were kept in the Milan. In 1164 they were solemnly delivered to Cologne.

For storage these relics Cologne’s masters created special sarcophagus from the gold, silver and ivory which is now treated as one of the most beautiful medieval masterpiece.

Thanks to these relics Cologne became very important center of Christianity and this status required to have a new more outstanding Cathedral.

Main Entrance

15 August 1248 Archbishop of Cologne Konrad von Hohshtaden laid first stone of Cathedral and thereby started the longest construction in European history – final works were finished only in 1880.

Cathedral’s choir has been consecrated in 1322. Its length – 41 meters, width – 45 and height 43. The height of stained-glass windows in Cathedral – 17 meters.

Works under the south tower lasted until 1450 and after that all works were stopped. After that Cologne Cathedral stood unfinished until the middle of 19 century. It even seemed that Cathedral will never be completed.

New impulse of construction has been given by Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm who ordered finish Cathedral according to initial design. King themselves laid first stone in 1842 to commemorate resuming of the construction.

All works were finished in 1863. And 15 October in the presence of Emperor William First were conducted celebrations and solemn opening of Cathedral.

Thanks to its enormous stain-glass windows Cologne Cathedral sometimes called as “Glass Cathedral”. The total square of windows in Cathedral – 10 000 square meters. Most of them are dating 13-15 centuries.

Foremost, let me point to the windows from the so-called “king cycle” which portray 48 Holy Kings. This masterpiece has been created in 1300 thanks to the support of the rich families of the Cologne.

In 1848, to commemorate 600 years anniversary of Cathedral, Bavarian King Ludwig First presented to the Cathedral so-called Bavarian Stained Glass which you can see in south part of the temple.

Sarcophagus of the Three Kings

Another masterpiece inside of Cathedral

Stain-glass windows

Pisa

The city of Pisa with its picturesque Campo dei Miracoli treated as one of the main tourist destinations of Italy. Duomo, Falling Tower and Camposanto are the unsurpassed masterpieces of the Middle Ages.

These buildings were built in the time of Golden Era of the city when Republic of Pisa was the one of the main marine forces of Europe. The fleet of Pisa took part in the The First Crusade and thanks to it Crusaders were able to capture important ports on the Middle East.

Decline of the city began after the city’s harbor (which was built by Romans) has been filled with silt and sea retreated from the city. Once Pisa lost its marine power the city quickly declined and fall under the rule of the neighboring Florence.

Pisa. Campo dei Miracoli. Photo provided by the Mihael Grmek under CC BY 3.0 license

I can’t say that Florence domination was harsh for the city. The rulers of Florence did a lot for the Pisa. For example, they established University in the city which still is one of Italy’s major high schools.

After the World War II Pisa has been transformed into the industrial center. But all factories in the city located on its suburbs and they not prevent you to test a charm of this magnificent city.

Most of the city’s visitors restrict themselves by the Campo dei Miracoli. But here I want to give you a glance on the others monuments of the city and instigate you to stay here a little more.

Pisa. Piazza dei Cavalieri. Photo provided by the JoJan under CC BY 3.0 license

Next to the Campo dei Miracoli you will find the Piazza dei Cavalieri – mediaeval heart of the city. Later this square has been redesigned by Vasari and became the headquarter of the Knights of St Stephen. In front of their main office - Palazzo dei Cavalieri – there is statue of Cosimo I who was founder of the Order. Next building to Palazzo dei Cavalieri is Santo Stefano church inside of which you can find flags captured in marine battles with Turks.

If you cross Piazza dei Martiri della Libertа you will find Santa Caterina church which originates from 1251. It’s nice example of Romanesque architecture in the city. Don’t miss the works of Nicola Pisano inside as well as the 14th century murals Triumph of Thomas Aquinas.

Pisa. Chiesa della Spina. Photo provided by the Elisabeth Naldera de Cassar under CC BY 3.0 license

Next to it there are Roman remnants – ruins of Roman Bath complex which presumably has been built in the first century. Also San Zeno – oldest church in the Pisa – stands close to the ruins.

The Via Dini which merges into the Borgo Stretto lays on your way to the Arno River. Borgo Stretto is a pedestrian area with a lot of restaurants and cafes. Also on the Borgo Stretto you will find the local market.

Another wonderful church in Pisa – San Michele – stands on the site of ancient Roman temple.

Going further on Borgo Stretto you will find the main bridge of Pisa – Ponte di Mezzo. If you cross the river you will reach the University district of the city which is located near the Piazza Dante. City’s botanical garden – Orto Botanico – which originates from 1591 lies just behind of this square.

Another interesting sight of the Pisa – Arsenale Mediceo – located at the Lungarno Simonelli street. Today this building is a home for the Roman war ships which were excavated in 1998 on the site of ancient Roman port.

Pisa. Roman Baths. Photo provided by the sailko under CC BY 3.0 license

Pisa. Lungarno Pacinotti. Photo provided by the José Luiz under CC BY 3.0 license

Pisa. Ponte Di Mezzo. Photo provided by the Taccolamat under CC BY 3.0 license

Pisa. Botanical Garden. Photo provided by the Laurentius under CC BY 3.0 license

Siegestor

Like many others great cities in Europe Munich has own Triumph Arch or as it called here Siegestor. Arch in Munich has been built in 1843-1850 by designs of Friedrichvon Gärtner. If you have been in Rome you will probably find that the Siegestor reminiscent the Arch of Constantine.

Siegestor is also called the Victory Arch. It dedicated to the Bavarian Army and to the victories over the Napoleon. Interesting that Bavaria not always been the enemy of Napoleon; in some period of history it was his ally and frankly speaking Bavarian kingdom significantly enlarged own territories thanks to the Napoleon.

Siegestor

The arch is topped by the statue of Bavaria. It also decorated by reliefs which portray the battle scenes. Another interesting detail of the Siegestor – is an inscription which has been added to the arch in 1958 and reminds humanity that there is nothing more important that the peace in our planet.

Arch of Victory located on the facet between old and new Munich. When you pass through it you will notice the change of atmosphere. Just behind the Siegestor begins the business Munich with a lot of offices and buildings of 20th century. Of course you will find there cafes and restaurants, shopping centers and even the cinemas. In the evening the area around of Siegestor will propose you handful blues and jazz bars.

Max Joseph Platz

This square in Munich has been designed in 1820s by architects Karl von Fischer and Leo von Klenze. In the center of the Max Joseph Platz there is a monument dedicated to the first Bavarian king - Maximilian I Joseph who did a lot for his country.

During his reign the first Bavarian constitution has been accepted which was also the first constitution in the Germany. (Bavaria was the separate state in 19 century). As the Max Joseph Platz the statue also has been designed by the Fischer and Klenz.

National Bavarian Theater at the Max Joseph Platz in Munich

In front of the statue you can find the National Bavarian Theater which you can visit on the one ticket with the Residence. This ticket will not allow you to visit evening performance; to do this you will need to buy another one.

Theater has form of Greeke temple with interior designed in Classical style. It became known in the world thanks to the performances of Wagnerian operas. For example, it was the place were Tristan und Isolde has been performed first time.

Also Max Joseph Platz is circled by a lot of pubs were you can test traditional Bavarian food and beer. I think that after you visit the Residence you will find themselves happy by sitting in one of the local pubs.

Mounumnet of Maximilian I Joseph

You can find a lot of pubs inside of these buildings

Pistoia

Undeservedly, the city of Pistoia is very often neglected by tourists. I don’t think that this small and picturesque town deserved such attitude. It has a lot well preserved monuments and could be reached in 30 minutes by train from Florence.

First time Pistoia has been mentioned in documents due to Catolina conspiring against of Roman Republic in the first century BC. Later the spirit of conspiracy became the one of the main traits of Pistoia citizens. When city has been captured by Florence here always were a lot of malcontents towards of Florentine regime. This reputation was so strong that even Dante defined the city as home of one of his negative heroes (Vanni Fucci). Another interesting fact about medieval rebellious spirit of Pistoia is that Michelangelo once called them as “enemies of heaven”.

Pistoia . Cathedral. Photo provided by the Geobia under CC BY 3.0 license

I think I have intrigued you enough to convince you to visit this town for the one or two-day's trip. The focal point of Pistoia is Piazza del Duomo which accommodates main monuments and museums of the city. Just a few minute’s walk from Piazza there are San Giovanni Fuorcivitas, Ospedale del Ceppo, San Bartolomeo and Sant’Andrea. So I recommend you after you arrival go there and start your excursion from that place.

During your stroll to the Piazza del Duomo you will cross the old city’ market on Piazza della Sala. In the few blocks from it lays Piazza San Leone which has been the center of the city during Lombard's times.

After contemplating the heritage of Lombards you will reach the superb ensemble of Piazza Duomo. Two main traits of the square - its size and layout. Really, when you arrive to the Piazza you will probably notice that it was built in untypical manner. While the main building of Piazza is its Campanila, the Duomo and Baptistery “lurk” on its corners. Expanse of the Piazza is impressing too. It’s better suits for the big cities like Florence then for a small provincial Pistoia. May be, by that, medieval citizens of Pistoia tried to challenge the Florence.

Pistoia . Details of Cathedral. Photo provided by the Mattana - Mattis under CC BY 3.0 license

Once a year Piazza holds special event called the Giostra dell’Orso. It’s a horse racing which originates from the Middle Ages. What differs this race from the traditional is that they don’t have rules. Racer can do almost everything to become the winner.

Official name of the Pistoia’ Cathedral - the Cattedrale di San Zeno. It has been built in the famous Pisan-Romanesque style (façade of the Duomo adorned by the black and white marble strips) and reminiscent Cathedrals in Luka and Pisa.

Inside of Cathedral in additional to the set of magnificent sculptures you can see the monument dedicated to the to Dante’s friend and teacher - Cino da Pistoia. It’s generally accepted that he was giving his lessens to Dante here.

Another great church of Pistoia, which has confirmed its inviolability, San Giovanni Fuorcivitas originates from the 8 century. I believe that it’s oldest church in the city. Of course it was rebuilt few times and now has a guise of the 14 century. Inside of this church you will find one of the most outstanding works of 13th century Tuscany. I’m talking about the pulpit which has been created by unknown master in 1270.

Pistoia Cathedral at night. Photo provided by the MM under CC BY 3.0 license

Pistoia Baptisiteriy. Photo provided by the MM under CC BY 3.0 license

Pistoia Detail of San Giovanni Fuorcivitas. Photo provided by the Mattana under CC BY 3.0 license

Brühl

Above all the city of Brühl is known for its luxury Baroque palace Augustusburg, built at the beginning of the 18 century for the archbishops of Cologne. Besides it I found this small city charming and enjoyable and spent a few hours by strolling on the city’s streets.

The main attraction of the Brühl – Augustusburg – has been built according to designs of Johann Conrad Schlaun over the ruins of medieval castle which has been destroyed by the French troops at the end of 17 century. The palace was built as the summer residence of Klemens August and inherited its name after him.

Center of Brühl

The complex stands in the perfect conditions. After the World War Second, when the neighboring Bonn has been chosen as the capital of Western Germany, Augustusburg has been used for official receptions of foreign delegations and been kept in good conditions.

You can enter inside only with the guided tour which is lasting a few hours. I’m personally was impressed by the main staircase and the Baroque dinner room. When you will visit it, note to the balconies; it was designed to allow wealthy citizens of Brühl watch the dinners of Klemens August what was the biggest perk for them.

Augustusburg

Near the Augustusburg there is a wonderful park which is decorated by sculptures and fountains. This park has been laid out according to designs of Dominique Girard. At the end of this park, which stretches to the few kilometers, you can find Falkenlust – “small” hunting house of Klemens August which has been built in 1729-1740 by designs of François Cuvilliés.

To recap this small essay about the Brühl I want to mention about the Phantasialand – the biggest entertainment theme park in Germany. It’s not only a park. It’s real city inside of the Brühl. To explore all activities proposed by park to the visitor you need to spend a few days here. Luckily, Phantasialand has a lot of hotels on its territory and you will easily find the place for your stay.

Falkenlust

Cologne

City of Cologne originates from the Roman times. In fact, the city was founded in the first century as the one of the military camps on banks of the Rhine River.

Today Cologne is a bustling metropolis known mostly for its healthcare and trade industries. And of course, Cologne, with its well restored historical center, is a one of the greatest tourist destinations of Germany.

The high tourist season in Cologne is November when in the city are conducting the famous festival. If you think that festival can be only in Brasil or Spain then visit Germany. I was nicely surprised when experienced how people in Germany can celebrate. Festival in Cologne is lasting for a week and this is the most vibrant celebration in Europe.

Catherdral of Cologne

Good point to start excursion on the city is a Train Station which is located in the heart of the Cologne. Just next to it there is most famous monument of the city – the Cologne’s Cathedral. The construction of this Cathedral started on August 1248 and continuously lasted until 19th century.

Cathedral it’s not only one outstanding church in Cologne. In the Middle Ages the city was known as the city of churches and even had corresponding nickname. Today Cologne has 12 surviving Romanesque churches what makes the city one of the biggest Romanesque museum in world.

Dancing fountain

Not far from the Cathedral you can find wonderful museum of Roman history of Cologne. The main artifact of the museum – is a great mosaic of enormous size which was recently discovered in the city center. But frankly speaking it’s only a one exhibit which could snap your soul. And it perfectly visible outside the museum. So, if you are restricted in the time then spend it for another museum - Wallraf-Richartz-Museum.

This museum has been established by Franz Wallraf who in 1824 gave his art collection to the city and Johann Heinrich Richartz who built first building to hold collection. I’m personally was interested in the medieval paintings of the museum but if you are fancier of modern arts you will find also this museum interesting. In additional you can find there a few works of Rubens and Rembrandt.

Another one interesting museum of Cologne – is a museum of Chocolate. It stands on the bank of Rhine River at south part of historical center. Main trait of this museum is that you will be allowed to test the museum’s exhibitions. So it’s better to visit this place when you are hungry.

Roman mosaic

Good excursion on Cologne - is a stroll along the former city walls. In the Cologne there are few survived examples of medieval fortifications and you will see them all during your walk.

The Aldstadt (or Old Center) of Cologne also huddles to the Rhine. It was severe damaged during the World War Second but after has been carefully restored. Oldest building which I founded there was dated from the 13 century. Today Old City of Cologne totally occupied by the bars, restaurants and the night clubs.

Old City Hall

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum

One more fountain in Cologne

Medieval Fortifications

Sendlinger Tor Munich

These city gates are the part of medieval fortifications of Munich which were built in 1285-1347 during the reign of kings Ludwig II the Severe and Ludwig IV of Bavaria. First time it was mentioned in 1318 and together with Isaator Gate it’s the oldest survived part of fortifications in the city.

Of course I can’t say that Sendlinger Tor did not change its guise. In the 1808 the gatehouse which once stood next to it has been demolished. Also the arches under the gate were not so wide as today. More precisely Gates had three different arches which in 19 century were joined to facilitate the city’s traffic.

Beyond the Sendlinger Tor there is a small wonderful Sendlinger Tor Platz which inherited its name after the Gates. Despite the fact that this is the one of transport hubs of the Munich, it’s a cased beautiful square which has the few nice restaurants.

The Sendlinger street which starts from this point was first street in Munich lined along the city’s walls. Btw, I forgot to mention that the “Sendlinger” means “sun holder” or “sun linger” if it’s good enough to translate in such way. Another mark of this area is a Matthew’s Church which originates from the Middle Ages. Like others churches in Germany it looks as new but don’t deceive themselves. It’s the old sight which was renovated few decades ago.

Assam House

You can easily find this house by its lavishly decorated façade. Assam House (or Asamhaus) once belonged to the artistic Bavarian family and its name has been inherited from them.

In 1729 Assam House has been bought by the Egin Quirin Asam who had decided to convert it into the most artistic building in Munich. This was the first time in Munich when famous artist rebuilt house for themselves by its designs.

Asam adorned the façade of the house by the wonderful murals which depict allegorical scenes from antiquity. Unfortunately, it’s closed for public and you can’t explore how the house looks inside.

Assam House and Assamkirche. Photo provided by the BBKurt under CC BY 3.0 license

Viktualienmarkt Munich

This market got its name in 19 century when it was fashionable to name places in Latin manner. The word Viktualienmarkt means “goods and stocks”. The market has been transferred here from Marienplatz in 1807 by edict of Max I. Joseph who has decided to clear the traders out from the city's center.

From 1870 pavilions on the market become stationary; previously they were dismantled every day.

Viktualienmarkt - is an oldest market in Munich. It’s located next to the city center and very popular among the tourists. You can find almost all kinds of goods here from Spanish wines and to the fresh fishes from around the world.

Of course, I do not advise you refill your stocks here because prices in the Viktualienmarkt are very high.

But don’t miss your chance to try some local foods here. For example, famous Bavarian sausages and beer. You will find it very delicious.

Market is also known not only for its original purpose. If you visit the Munich during the city’s carnival you will find here a lot of celebrations including the famous dance of masked Viktualienmarkt’ sellers.

The fountain on the market has been erected to commemorate this dance and portrays cabaret artists.

Lykavittos Hill

I always wondered why ancient Athenians founded their fortress on the Acropolis hill? After all, in Athens there is more applicable place for stronghold – the Lykavittos hill which is highest point of the city.

You will feel, how it’s difficult just to climb here on foots even without the weight of ammunition. But it’s a few times harder to do with military equipment on your shoulders and even more harder if somebody from top of the hill will try to clog your action. Of course, for your sake, in the nowadays there is a funicular which will quickly deliver you on the top.

View of Athens from the Lykavittos hill. Photo provided by the Jean Housen under CC BY 3.0 license

Btw, ancient Athenians shared my point of view. They believed that initially Athena thought to build the Acropolis fortress here but unintentionally released the rock out of her hands when she was carrying it to the city.

Startlingly, but there are not many mentioning about this rock in the classical ancient Greek literature. We have only a few words in Aristophanes’s and Plato’s works. I also wonder whether or not ancient Athenians ascended to the hill to enjoy spectacular view of the city?

Today at the top of the Lykavittos hill you can find small Agios Geуrgios church which originates from the 19th century. This church has been built on the site of more elder church. Of course, at the Lykavittos hill there are café, observation desk, restaurant and scene where jazz and pop music are played.

Agios Geуrgios church. Photo provided by the Křžut under CC BY 3.0 license