Germany: Cologne
Areas in the city:
In a nutshell...
All roads in Cologne lead to its two-towered cathedral which reaches 157 metres into the sky and is visible from almost everywhere in the city. Construction took 632 years to finish, and it is one of the most celebrated architectural monuments in Germany today.
Cologne is distinguished from other German cities because of the 12 Roman churches that can be found within its medieval walls. From Gross St. Martin in the heart of the old town, to Ste. Maria, the largest of the Roman churches, built over the foundations of a Roman temple, St Gereon, surrounded by greenery and St Andreas, constructed on the ancient Roman wall.
Cologne wouldn’t have its reputation if it weren’t for the Rhine and the numerous romantic walks that tourists can take along its banks. While in the neighbourhood, take the opportunity to visit the irresistible chocolate museum and the German sports museum, both situated on the river banks.
Cologne : Walks
Few hours in medieval Cologne
During the height of the middle ages, Cologne more than tripled in size. This rapid expansion called for new fortifications that are still somewhat visible (dating from the 12th century) along present-day Ring, a series of boulevards that spreads out in the shape of a half moon in the western part of the city (the eastern side is limited by the Rhine). The City Hall is also an site worth seeing; take particular notice of the Renaissance entryway that is adjoined by a tall gothic tower. In the same plaza, a large glass pyramid was constructed giving a view of the former Jewish baths of the 12th century. The maze of streets jutting off from the plaza are named after ancient professions such as "Goldschmied" and "Mühlen" (millers). They lead the way through the Saint Martain neighborhood and towards the market place "Alter Markt" and the fish market "Fischmarkt."
From KLAAF to EIGELSTEINTOR
Continue on Eigelstein.
From EIGELSTEINTOR to MOREEN
Continue on Eigelstein
Left at Eintrachtstraße
Continue on Kardinal-Frings-Straße
Take a right at Altengrabengäßchen
Continue on Klingelpütz
Right at Gereonsdriesch
Left at Steinfelder Gasse
Left at Friesenstraße
Right on Magnusstraße
Left at Alte Wallgasse
Right on Palmstraße
