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.
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.
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.
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.
