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4711 Eau de Cologne


Eau de Toilette
Glockengasse 4711
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 00800 8070 8090 (Procter & Gamble Service GmbH)
http://www.4711.com/uk/glocken...
The giant 4711 sign is probably one of the first things you'll see when you arrive at Cologne Hauptbahnhof. Also while strolling through Ehrenfeld you'll come across the same logo. 4711 is indeed the original eau de cologne, and a trademark of the city. The shop by the opera house is dedicated exclusively to the scent. The atmosphere is elegant, as are the nice sales assistants. Kölnisch Wasser is available in all kinds of bottles and forms and can be gift-wrapped. They have huge bottles, or smaller ones for your handbag or bathroom. The window display is full of gift ideas, and you're sure to find something.

Review © 2007, Wcities
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by cool_colonia4711
Photo: cool_colonia4711
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by Mike
Photo: Mike
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by kai|kre
Photo: kai|kre
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by Martina Grilec
Photo: Martina Grilec
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by b.r.e.i.t.i
Photo: b.r.e.i.t.i
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by David Humpohl
Photo: David Humpohl
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by Kurt Wyss
Photo: Kurt Wyss
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by Winnie Teichmann
Photo: Winnie Teichmann
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by phillip d. schneider
Photo: phillip d. schneider
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by Honou
Photo: Honou
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by Aquamist
Photo: Aquamist
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by ikke_006
Photo: ikke_006
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by MitchShark
Photo: MitchShark
4711 Eau de Cologne photo by Ronile35
Photo: Ronile35
 

 
4711 Glocken Alley


Birthplace of the famous eau-de-cologne.
Glockengasse 4711
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 9 25 04 50
One of the best-known addresses in Cologne is Glockengasse 4711, where the company Kölnisch Wasser began the campaign which was to end in world-wide popularity. In the original neo-gothic house, just opposite the Oper-house, there is still the 4711 perfumery which sells the original eau-de-cologne ('Echt Kölnisch Wasser'). The bells on the side of the house play tunes, among which is the Marseillaise - a reminder of the French influence present when eau-de-cologne began its climb towards success.

Review © 2007, Wcities
4711 Glocken Alley photo by Marisa_lc
Photo: Marisa_lc
 

 
Aachener Weiher Beer Garden


Summer in the city
Richard-Wagner-Street
(Am Aachener Weiher)
Cologne, NRW 50674
Germany
+49 (0)221 500 0614 / +49 (0)221 508 0427
http://www.biergarten-aachener...
When the sun is out, locals flock in their thousands to Cologne's beer gardens, which can seem a bit like holiday camps on hot summer weekends. One of the most popular is Aachener Weiher, set in a park close to the university and not far from the centre of town. Its location makes it a great place to take a break and cool off with a glass of Kölsch beer. Snacks like sausages and salad are also served. If you manage to stay sober, the nearby Museum of East Asian Art is also worth a visit.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Aachener Weiher Beer Garden photo by Martin Donath
Photo: Martin Donath
Aachener Weiher Beer Garden photo by Fabian Huber
Photo: Fabian Huber
 

 
Adenauer Monument


Memorial to the first Federal Chancellor
Apostelnstraße
(Mittelstraße -- Nordseite von St. Aposteln)
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
Konrad Adenauer (1876-1967) was not only a native of Cologne, he also exerted a decisive influence on the city's history. He was called into service as a town councillor in 1906 and was Mayor from 1917 to 1933. Driven out in 1933, he was only able to resume his position at the of the war. Form 1949 to 1963, he served as the first Chancellor of the Federal Republic. A memorial dedicated to him by the people of Cologne was erected in 1995. As a young man Adenauer had lived near St. Aposteln.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Adenauer Monument photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Agrippa Pools


Multi-functional combi-pool from Autumn 2000
Kämmergasse 1
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50676
Germany
+49 221 279 1730
http://www.koelnbaeder.de/Page...
The Agrippa Bad, some of whose walls are under a heritage preservation order is a great swimming pool. The pool is situated in a central location and combines open air and indoor pools, and is also suitable for disabled people. Visitors can use the ten metre high tower, a 25-metre stainless steel pool as well as the four-season pool with massage water nozzles and a huge 127 metre long slide. In addition, a wave making facility in the 25 metre pool should give some visitors pleasure. A raised platform in the pool can be used for aqua jogging and baby swimming sessions. There is also a wellness and fitness centre, a health centre with a Kneipp cure section, hay and mudbaths as well as a massage and cosmetics department. This multi-faceted range on offer is complemented by a whirlpool, cold water and sea water pools, sauna with a roof garden which makes a wonderful view over the whole of Cologne possible, as well as by a bistro and restaurant.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Air Travel Museum


Museum for Cologne's History of Aviation
Butzweilerstraße 35
Cologne, NRW 50829
Germany
+49 221 59 1909
http://www.luftfahrtmuseum.com/
The Air Travel Museum was opened in November 1986 on the military grounds in Ossendorf. There are documents on Cologne air traffic history, autographs, descriptions and flight textbooks on display here. There are also, among other things, whole pieces of aircraft to marvel at. It is important to bring your ID card/Passport to gain entrance and go on a tour because you will be on military grounds!

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Antonite Church


A small church but a great treasure.
Schildergasse 57
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 925 8460
The gothic Antoniterkirche is an oasis of peace amidst the bustle of the Schildergasse, Cologne's main shopping street. The church seems more like a chapel but still has three different wings. It was built in 1350-1380, and visitors to Cologne admire the structure with its examples of period art and architecture.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Applied Art Museum


Art and other objects
An der Rechtschule
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 2212 6714
http://www.museenkoeln.de/mak
Inside the Museum für Angewandte Kunst, you can take a stroll from the Middle Ages right through to the present day. From furniture to jewellery, every kind of object used in every-day life is on show. The Museum has been open since 1989. Guided tours: 2:30p Sa & Su; 6p W.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Applied Art Museum photo by amberglow
Photo: amberglow
Applied Art Museum photo by amberglow
Photo: amberglow
Applied Art Museum photo by Veronica M
Photo: Veronica M
Applied Art Museum photo by Veronica M
Photo: Veronica M
 

 
Archbishop's Diocese Museum


Treasures of the Church.
Roncalliplatz 2
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 2577 672
http://www.kolumba.de
If you want to visit a museum on a Monday in Cologne, you'll probably find yourself at the Erzbischöfliches Diözesanmuseum (since 1853), as it happens to be the only museum open on a Monday! The collection on display includes the treasures of the churches and archdiocese of Cologne. Stefan Lochner's Madonna mit dem Veilchen (Madonna with Violets) from the mid-15th century is of particular note. Heinz Mack's Himmelssäule (Pillars of Heaven), a 10-metre-high modern sculpture, towers over the entrance. There is no entry charge.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Archbishop's Diocese Museum photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Arsenal


Museum of Cologne's history
Zeughausstraße 1-3
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 25789
http://www.museenkoeln.de/Ksm
First-time visitors to the Kölnisches Stadtmuseum are usually taken aback. On top of the tower is a winged golden car which has apparently nothing at all to do with the old building underneath it. The Fiesta, which was produced in Cologne, was celebrated by the artist H.A. Schmidt, who created the memorial car and in doing so caused bitter controversy. This is part of Cologne's local history, which is the theme of the Zeughaus. Among other pieces from Cologne's rich and varied past which are on display here is the gothic city seal.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Arsenal photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Ascot Fitness and Health Club


Fitness and Health Club in private atmosphere
Hohenzollernring 95-97
Kölner Ringe
Cologne, NRW 50672
Germany
+49 221 51 8325
http://www.ascot-fitness.de
Excellent training rooms and a private atmosphere await you at the Ascot Fitness Center des Ascot Hotels. A spacious training room with weights equipment, for training of all the muscle groups and stamina make this an optimal place to train. The following services are available: free consultation, checks for stamina, power and flexibility, individual training plan, free training in the Vitalis Fitness team in Köln-Holweide and as a special extra a you can save money with the Super Saver for first two months. Experienced sports teachers and sports therapists supervise and are on hand to answer questions. The Ascot Fitness Club also offers sailing, Inline Skating, Water-ski, bicycle and motorbike tours, Go-Carting, parties and more. If you need to relax there is a large sauna, and then to recharge the batteries there is the bistro where you will find everything you need. However, the yearly membership is offered at a lower rate.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Assumption of Mary Church


The only big Baroque church
Marzellenstraße
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50765
Germany
+49 221 13 7130
The only big Baroque church in Cologne was built by Christoph Wamser from Aschaffenburg for the Jesuits and first completed in 1715. The inside of the church was decorated in Gothic style as appropriate to the Counterreformation. After the Jesuit order was dissolved in 1773, the church was used by the French from 1798 as a "Temple of Reason". After being destroyed in the war, the church was rebuilt by W. Schlombs and A. Georgen in its original forms with Baroque exterior and a three-storey high altar. The rebuilding process lasted until 1979. The former Jesuit College, which was connected to the church, is now used for the archiepiscopal trainee curates.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Assumption of Mary Church photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Beer Fountain


Meeting point on Schildergasse
Schildergasse
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
The Beer Fountain marks the lower end of Schildergasse, where the street broadens to form a little square. The stone seats placed around the fountain are a convenient place to meet, or good for simply sitting down to give your feet a rest. Meanwhile you can watch other shopoholics dash in and out of Kaufhof, Gap or H & M. This is also a place where you can nearly always catch a street performer. The minimalist, rather phallic stone column was designed by art students and erected in 1972. A Cologne brewery sponsored the presentation, when beer gushed from the top of the stone. Today it is merely ordinary water that flows down the column.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Beer Fountain photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Beer Museum


700 brands of beer
Antwerpener Straße 31
Belgisches Viertel
Cologne, NRW 50672
Germany
+49 221 51 6590
The Biermuseum is a rather typical kiosk selling magazines, sweets, snacks and drinks. But unlike every other kiosk in Cologne, they also have 700 different kinds of bottled beer to choose from! If you're looking for one of your favorite German brews that is hard to find in this part of the country, or a particular brand of dark Hefe Weizen or Schwarzbier, this is the place to come. They also have a good selection of strong Belgian beers, including Delerium Tremens and Chimay, English ales like Spitfire or Newcastle Brown but also beers from far more exotic places like Cuba, South Africa, Jamaica and Brazil. Because they are a kiosk, rather than a normal shop, they can stay open much later.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Blücher Park


Great but hidden park in Ehrenfeld
Parkgürtel
(Escher Straße)
Cologne, NRW 50739
Germany
Unfortunately, the Blücherpark is rather loud, due to the fact that the autobahn is right nearby, otherwise this park is really marvelous: Spacious lawns with plenty of room to laze around and soak up the sunshine, a nice rose-garden guarded by two stone lions, and tree-lined promenades to provide a bit of shade. For children there's a football pitch surrounded by trees, as well as table tennis facilities. The highlight of the park is the small pond in the middle, with ducks and frogs and even sunbathing turtles! On one side of the pond is the rose-garden, on the other the Kahnstation beer garden, which opens at 2p. Here you can also rent a boat for a romantic row around the pond.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Bott Mill


A picturesque windmill
An der Bottmühle
Südstadt
Cologne, NRW 50678
Germany
The ivy-covered Bottmühle is one of the Südstadt's most picturesque landmarks. The platform was built on the inner side of the city wall on which in 1587 a windmill was constructed. Later, in the year 1677-1678 the appearance of the mill changed once more. A tall stone tower was built on the site by the city stone-mason Andreas von Gülich.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bott Mill photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Breslau Collection Museum


Culture-historical exhibition from Schlesien
Markmannsgasse 7
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 258 2676
The Breslauer Collection offers exhibits of art from Schlesien and its capital Breslau. Copper engravings, wood carvings, maps as part of Breslau's pictorial documentation and some big paintings are on display here. An extensive coin, medal, glass and ceramic collection is on display. In the museum you can also marvel at a Library with historical documents from the Breslauer Magistrates.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Cathedral Square


A busy square in the shade of the cathedral.
Domplatte
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
In summer, it is always busy on the forecourt of the Kölner Dom. This is a place to meet friends or watch the pavement artists, or to listen to the street musicians play their set amidst the crowds. On New Year's thousands of people come here to celebrate with fireworks and bottles of Sekt.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Cathedral Square photo by Ivan Jung
Photo: Ivan Jung
Cathedral Square photo by Ivan Jung
Photo: Ivan Jung
Cathedral Square photo by Derick Rethans
Photo: Derick Rethans
Cathedral Square photo by Erik-Jan Vens
Photo: Erik-Jan Vens
Cathedral Square photo by Bamshad Houshyani
Photo: Bamshad Houshyani
 

 
Chocolate Museum


Chocolate museum
Rheinauhafen 1a
Cologne, NRW 50678
Germany
+49 221 931 8880
http://www.schokoladenmuseum.de
Opened in 1993, the Chocolate Museum is located in Cologne's former harbor, and the building has been designed in the shape of a ship's prow in deference to this maritime connection. Architect Ernst Eller constructed the building almost entirely out of glass, according to the specifications of Hans Imhoff, head of the Stollwerck company. The firm has also influenced the name of the museum, which in full reads 'The Imhoff-Stollwerck Museum of the Past and Present of Chocolate'. Visitors can drink from the warm chocolate spring and try out the home-made chocolate produced in the factory.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Chocolate Museum photo by Swamibu
Photo: Swamibu
Chocolate Museum photo by Ulrich van Stipriaan
Photo: Ulrich van Stipriaan
Chocolate Museum photo by sara simpson
Photo: sara simpson
Chocolate Museum photo by jamessmke
Photo: jamessmke
Chocolate Museum photo by Kristin Cunningham
Photo: Kristin Cunningham
Chocolate Museum photo by Grace Chen
Photo: Grace Chen
Chocolate Museum photo by David Hill
Photo: David Hill
Chocolate Museum photo by Benno Rice
Photo: Benno Rice
Chocolate Museum photo by Karla R. Winans
Photo: Karla R. Winans
Chocolate Museum photo by g h o s t w r i t e
Photo: g h o s t w r i t e
Chocolate Museum photo by Amy Tan
Photo: Amy Tan
Chocolate Museum photo by Chris Pavicich
Photo: Chris Pavicich
Chocolate Museum photo by Thomas Zahr
Photo: Thomas Zahr
Chocolate Museum photo by Adam Townshend
Photo: Adam Townshend
Chocolate Museum photo by Peter Gerrard
Photo: Peter Gerrard
Chocolate Museum photo by Emily Kao
Photo: Emily Kao
Chocolate Museum photo by Ben Martin
Photo: Ben Martin
Chocolate Museum photo by Jordan Osiowy
Photo: Jordan Osiowy
Chocolate Museum photo by dion_farrell
Photo: dion_farrell
Chocolate Museum photo by dancingminstrel1
Photo: dancingminstrel1
Chocolate Museum photo by Vangelis Skaperdas
Photo: Vangelis Skaperdas
Chocolate Museum photo by Pradeep Noronha
Photo: Pradeep Noronha
Chocolate Museum photo by Robert Palmer
Photo: Robert Palmer
Chocolate Museum photo by Tomás González
Photo: Tomás González
Chocolate Museum photo by Dharbigt Maersk
Photo: Dharbigt Maersk
Chocolate Museum photo by Amanda
Photo: Amanda
Chocolate Museum photo by sarah franken
Photo: sarah franken
Chocolate Museum photo by Grace Padilla
Photo: Grace Padilla
Chocolate Museum photo by Daniela Féchir
Photo: Daniela Féchir
Chocolate Museum photo by emilyrazzano
Photo: emilyrazzano
Chocolate Museum photo by Mary Young
Photo: Mary Young
Chocolate Museum photo by Lynsey Palmer
Photo: Lynsey Palmer
Chocolate Museum photo by Kylee Rutledge
Photo: Kylee Rutledge
Chocolate Museum photo by Sivakumar Appan
Photo: Sivakumar Appan
Chocolate Museum photo by Dylan Rickenbacker
Photo: Dylan Rickenbacker
Chocolate Museum photo by alessandra jones
Photo: alessandra jones
 

 
City Forest


Biggest forest in central Cologne
Dürener Straße
(Lindenthal)
Cologne, NRW 50931
Germany
The Stadtwald stretches over more than 200 hectares, and is a pride to its name. Visitors entering the eastern part can recover from the stresses of every-day life among a plantation of trees which are over a hundred years old. A variety of leisure activities is possible: the wildlife enclosures are open to the public and rowing-boats can be hired for use on the pond. A large play-area offers fun for younger visitors. In the western and more recent part of the park there is the six-hectare Adenauer pond with a jogging-track. Several restaurants and beergardens offer a choice of refreshments.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Forest photo by optochris
Photo: optochris
 

 
City Garden


Park with adjacent popular café-bar & beer garden
Venloer Straße 40
Belgisches Viertel
Cologne, NRW 50672
Germany
Cologne's oldest park is the Stadtgarten, laid out between 1827 and 1829 and altered constantly until the end of the 19th century. Throughout its history, it has offered Cologne's poorer inhabitants a free opportunity for relaxation during their leisure hours. Nowadays, the park has ancient trees and lawns for all the sunbathers in summer. The Stadtgarten restaurant and regular jazz and electronica events in the Studio 672 downstairs provide good entertainment.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Garden photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
City Hall


Cologne's City Hall - partly rebuilt.
Rathausplatz
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
Visitors to the Kölner Rathaus are almost certain to see one of the many newly-married couples who have their wedding photographs taken in front of the beautiful historic facade after taking their vows. Having been damaged during the Second World War, part of the 14th-century Renaissance building was rebuilt. Cologne artisans concentrated particularly on restoring the Rathaus tower, and thanks to their donations visitors today can hear the bells ringing just as they did before. Statues of emperors, popes, poets and academics - and also of women's rights campaigners - look down from the tower on the busy square below. The consoles of the tower are also decorated with the likenesses of various figures from the vast periods that span the tower's history.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Hall photo by Frank Kehren
Photo: Frank Kehren
City Hall photo by Sean McCleary
Photo: Sean McCleary
City Hall photo by Ting Feng
Photo: Ting Feng
City Hall photo by Blanca Rodriguez
Photo: Blanca Rodriguez
City Hall photo by antti_hki
Photo: antti_hki
City Hall photo by Geovanna Benedictis
Photo: Geovanna Benedictis
 

 
City Walls


City Wall
Sachsenring
Südstadt
Cologne, NRW 50677
Germany
The first ever German memorial to the distant past is to be found in part of the medieval city wall near to the Ulrepforte. In the late 13th century, a breach in the wall allowed enemy troops to enter the city for the first and only time in the history of Cologne. The memorial to this event, which is to be found close to the Ulrepforte, is a replica. The original is kept in the Kölner Stadtmuseum.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Walls photo by LotharCgn
Photo: LotharCgn
 

 
Claudius Baths


recreation in Roman bath
Sachsenbergstraße 1
Deutz
Cologne, NRW 50679
Germany
+49 221 981 4420
http://www.claudius-therme.de
If you fancy a swim in the surroundings of roman baths, this is the place for you. Pure relaxation in the pool is the thing. Thermal baths extend out of doors, and you can head for the sauna area if you want to build up a healthy sweat. Afterwards, the pleasant restaurant is a good place to recover and refuel. 2 hours in the thermal baths costs (EUR 11), while 4 hours is priced at (EUR 16) including use of the sauna. Real pool-lovers who want to spend the whole day in the wet can purchase a day ticket for (EUR 21). The Claudiustherme gift voucher is the ideal bithday present for your nearest and dearest! Parking available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Cologne Carnival


Cologne Carnival
Alter Markt
(and throughout the city)
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 57 4000
http://www.colognecarnival.com
The Carnival period is known by the inhabitants of Cologne as the 'fifth season'. In fact, the entire city goes mad for a number of weeks. The Carnival actually begins on the eleventh day of the eleventh month at eleven minutes past eleven, and ends on Ash Wednesday. Prunksitzungen, giant ceremonial parties, begin on 8 January, and things reach a climax on Rosenmontag (Rose Monday), when a massive parade is held. 40 Carnival societies, some of them over 100 years old and 122 bands march through the streets, throwing sweets and flowers into the crowds.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Cologne Carnival photo by Dietmar Hochmuth
Photo: Dietmar Hochmuth
Cologne Carnival photo by Dietmar Hochmuth
Photo: Dietmar Hochmuth
Cologne Carnival photo by Michael Breuer
Photo: Michael Breuer
Cologne Carnival photo by Klaus Kaumanns
Photo: Klaus Kaumanns
Cologne Carnival photo by Klaus Kaumanns
Photo: Klaus Kaumanns
Cologne Carnival photo by Al Fed
Photo: Al Fed
Cologne Carnival photo by G.I. Jones
Photo: G.I. Jones
Cologne Carnival photo by Samuel
Photo: Samuel
Cologne Carnival photo by José E. Arévalo
Photo: José E. Arévalo
Cologne Carnival photo by Rajni Suthar
Photo: Rajni Suthar
Cologne Carnival photo by William Wong
Photo: William Wong
Cologne Carnival photo by markamm
Photo: markamm
 

 
Cologne City Museum


Cologne history
Zeughausstraße 1-3
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 2212 5789
http://www.museenkoeln.de/Ksm/...
The first traces of the Zeughaus, in which weapons were kept date from the 14th century. Around the year 1600 a new armory was planned and built, which already included objects gained during Cologne's long history of military campaigns - for example, from the battle of Worringen in 1288, when the power of the Archbishops in Cologne was decisively ended. Since 1958, when the Kölnische Stadtmuseum opened in the former armory, some of the historical pieces have returned; cannons from 1377 - the oldest to have survived, but also the weapons and armor of the city guard in later times.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Cologne City Museum photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Cologne Tourist Office


tourist Information
Unter Fettenhennen 19
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 233 45
http://www.koeln.de
The best information on a wide variety of topics of interest to Cologne visitors can be found at the Cologne Tourist Office, situated just in front of the main side of the Cathedral. You can buy or take brochures for free about sightseeing attractions, book tickets for city tours on foot or by bus, book your hotel room and obtain a copy of the "Köln-Monatsvorschau", which offers an overview of current events in the city.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Cologne Tourist Office photo by Tom Langston
Photo: Tom Langston
 

 
Cologne Zoo


Third oldest zoo in Germany
Riehler Straße 173
Riehl
Cologne, NRW 50735
Germany
+49 221 7 7850
http://www.zoo-koeln.de
The Cologne Zoo is Germany's third oldest zoo. It has a long history and is still, as always, a much-loved place to visit. In 1863, the elephant house was the first building to be opened. The monkey-island has been there since 1914, and is a home for hundreds of monkeys of every age. In 1947, the zoo was reopened after a long closure. It is now four times the size and even more fascinating. Since 1960, each year a new attraction has been added. An owl-house was built in 1997, and in April of this year a new 'rainforest' was opened. It is inside a huge building with palm trees and humid, tropical air. Paths weave through stone and over bamboo bridges. Amongst the exhibits is plenty of information about the rainforests and the man's ecological threat to them. The feeding times are always popular. At the end of your visit, stop by the Zoo-venir shop for a postcard or a T-shirt featuring your favorite animal. Lots more information can be found on the zoo website. Prices are EUR 8.50 for adults, EUR 4.75 for children (4-17 years). Feeding Times are 11a, 2p, 4p for sealions, 10:45a, 4:30p for penguins, 3p for babboons and noon and 4:30p for otters.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Cologne Zoo photo by Sk0rp
Photo: Sk0rp
Cologne Zoo photo by beedotgee
Photo: beedotgee
Cologne Zoo photo by beedotgee
Photo: beedotgee
Cologne Zoo photo by Heavenbound
Photo: Heavenbound
Cologne Zoo photo by josepina
Photo: josepina
Cologne Zoo photo by Joerg Gebauer
Photo: Joerg Gebauer
Cologne Zoo photo by Gavin Barker
Photo: Gavin Barker
Cologne Zoo photo by Peter Hausmann
Photo: Peter Hausmann
Cologne Zoo photo by Peter Hausmann
Photo: Peter Hausmann
Cologne Zoo photo by Andre
Photo: Andre
Cologne Zoo photo by Martin Schmitt
Photo: Martin Schmitt
Cologne Zoo photo by Patrick Neumann
Photo: Patrick Neumann
Cologne Zoo photo by Mark L. Darby
Photo: Mark L. Darby
Cologne Zoo photo by Stefan Heller
Photo: Stefan Heller
Cologne Zoo photo by Andreas
Photo: Andreas
Cologne Zoo photo by ufo61
Photo: ufo61
Cologne Zoo photo by docmartinraymond
Photo: docmartinraymond
Cologne Zoo photo by Peter
Photo: Peter
Cologne Zoo photo by Paul Wrighton
Photo: Paul Wrighton
Cologne Zoo photo by jaybird85
Photo: jaybird85
Cologne Zoo photo by Morakot
Photo: Morakot
Cologne Zoo photo by Agnes Wollny
Photo: Agnes Wollny
Cologne Zoo photo by U.Eschment
Photo: U.Eschment
Cologne Zoo photo by Alexander Wegener
Photo: Alexander Wegener
Cologne Zoo photo by Frits van den Dop
Photo: Frits van den Dop
Cologne Zoo photo by Niklas
Photo: Niklas
 

 
Colonius Tower


Cologne's high-point
Innere Kanalstraße
Ehrenfeld
Cologne, NRW 50823
Germany
The telecommunications tower stands 243.3 metres above the city. On the initiative of a local newspaper, it was named Colonius upon opening in 1980. Unfortunately it's no longer possible to enjoy the fantastic view from the tower; the restaurant and café have been closed for quite some time. The tower can be best looked at from the park around it. The green mile goes as far as to the university.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Colonius Tower photo by Sharpshooter°
Photo: Sharpshooter°
Colonius Tower photo by Martin Junius
Photo: Martin Junius
Colonius Tower photo by Andreas Gerdes, skalarsoft.com
Photo: Andreas Gerdes, skalarsoft.com
Colonius Tower photo by daniel zimmel
Photo: daniel zimmel
Colonius Tower photo by Christian Koehler
Photo: Christian Koehler
Colonius Tower photo by eki
Photo: eki
Colonius Tower photo by VGA 4.0
Photo: VGA 4.0
Colonius Tower photo by Pofak
Photo: Pofak
Colonius Tower photo by gustavo lurcho
Photo: gustavo lurcho
Colonius Tower photo by TvR
Photo: TvR
Colonius Tower photo by Bjoern Lund
Photo: Bjoern Lund
Colonius Tower photo by Kai Engelhardt
Photo: Kai Engelhardt
Colonius Tower photo by r0ssi.de
Photo: r0ssi.de
Colonius Tower photo by Anthony Lavado
Photo: Anthony Lavado
Colonius Tower photo by Wolfgang Stoll
Photo: Wolfgang Stoll
Colonius Tower photo by Christian Klein
Photo: Christian Klein
Colonius Tower photo by Frank Monnerjahn
Photo: Frank Monnerjahn
Colonius Tower photo by S.Peters spinworx.de
Photo: S.Peters spinworx.de
Colonius Tower photo by Tim
Photo: Tim
 

 
Craftsmen's Friend Fountain


A memorial to the handworkers's friend.
Am Hof 12-14
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
The Heinzelmännchen-Brunnen tells the story of the friendly Heinzelmännchen, who, according to Cologne's legends, used to help the city's handworkers with their toils overnight. The fountain's figures even tell the unhappy ending of the story, when the Heinzelmännchen finally disappeared.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Craftsmen's Friend Fountain photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Deutzer Bridge


The link between Deutz and the Old Town
Heumarkt/Deutzer Freiheit
Deutz
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
The Hindenburg suspension bridge was entirely destroyed in the second World War. A simple girder bridge was erected in its place in 1979. Today it is called Deutzer Bridge and is 40 metres wide.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Deutzer Bridge photo by Francesca Ballarin McGuire
Photo: Francesca Ballarin McGuire
Deutzer Bridge photo by Daniel Lohmann
Photo: Daniel Lohmann
Deutzer Bridge photo by Sharpshooter°
Photo: Sharpshooter°
Deutzer Bridge photo by Patricia Scherer
Photo: Patricia Scherer
Deutzer Bridge photo by Jörg Formella
Photo: Jörg Formella
Deutzer Bridge photo by And She Was Always D
Photo: And She Was Always D
Deutzer Bridge photo by Frank Juettner
Photo: Frank Juettner
Deutzer Bridge photo by Carol
Photo: Carol
 

 
Deutzer Concentration Camp Outpost Memorial


12,000 Jews deported from Deutz
Messeplatz
(Koelner Rheinhallen)
Cologne, NRW 50679
Germany
Between 1942 and 1945, the Nazis sent 12,000 Jews to concentration camps in eastern Europe from the "Deutz-Tief" station. The victims' belongings were dumped inside the fair pavilion. Nazi officials and their accomplices helped themselves from this stock. Nearby stood a Nazi "work camp" where Konrad Adenauer was imprisoned. The memorial was erected in 1994. Before that only a memorial tablet testified to the horrors that took place on this spot.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Deutzer Concentration Camp Outpost Memorial photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Disch House


Jewish cultural refuge
Brückenstraße 19
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
The Dischhaus was built in 1929-30 in the place of a hotel by Carl Damian Disch. Its arched shape is reminiscent of the bow of a large steam ship. This was the home of the Jewish cultural association during the Third Reich, and served as a refuge for Jewish artists. It became state property in 1938. The local town hall is now located here.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Dreikönigenpförtchen


Cologne's Only Immunity Archway
Lichhof
Altstadt
Cologne, NRW 50676
Germany
The Three King's Archway was erected in 1310 in a Gothic style and is today the only Immunity Archway of the city. Immunity Archways are the gates to monasteries and convents. It is said that everyone who walks through the gate will enjoy immunity from any adversaries while on the church grounds. You'll find the Worship of Three Holy King's, which dates from the 14th century, on the top part of the gate. The original was, however, later exchanged for a copy because it was so valuable.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Dreikönigenpförtchen photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
DuMont Fountain


Source of inspiration for Cologne publishers.
Breite Straße
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
Theo Heiermann founded this artistic source in 1986 for the great Cologne publishing house situated nearby, after which it was named. The theme presented by the Brunnen over its two floors centres on the newspaper - a newspaper seller, a newspaper reader and a child with a newspaper hat are depicted. Enjoy the portrait of Marcus DuMont exhibited in his honour. The Brunnen is easy to find. It is situated on Breite Straße, between Karstadt and the corner of Richmodstraße.

Review © 2007, Wcities
DuMont Fountain photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Eigelstein Gate


A farmer guards the Eigelstein.
Eigelstein
Agnesviertel
Cologne, NRW 50668
Germany
The Eigelsteintor is one of the three medieval gatehouses that remain from the city's early fortifications. This gate is now the symbol of Eigelstein, one of the colorful and lively districts of Cologne. Below the two towers, the Kölner Bauer keeps watch. Traditionally, the figure stands for the city's independence. The three Kölner Bauer figures appear each year in the Cologne carnival. The original Bauer is located in the courtyard of the city hall; the figure in Eigelstein is a casting.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Eigelstein Gate photo by daveyoung
Photo: daveyoung
Eigelstein Gate photo by Jade Fenster
Photo: Jade Fenster
Eigelstein Gate photo by Jade Fenster
Photo: Jade Fenster
 

 
Escher Lake


Swimming
Am Baggerfeld
Esch
Cologne, NRW 50767
Germany
+49 221 590 6363
Awaiting you is a supervised lake, with a separate area for non-swimmers, loungers for rent and a good shop with outside cafeteria. Where you will find everything you need in way of refreshments. The lake is open during the school holidays from 10a.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
FIFA World Cup Stadium Cologne (Müngersdorfer)


Football Fanatics
Aachener Strasse 999
(Triubne Ost/Eingang 9)
Cologne, NRW 50933
Germany
+49 0221 7161 6150
http://www.stadion-koeln.de
Formerly the Müngersdorfer Stadium, the FIFA World Cup Stadium in Cologne holds 46,000 as a purpose-built football arena. Thousands of fans enjoy brutal football games here as the atmosphere is truly breathtaking. A visit to a match is highly recommended. A variety of concerts and markets are also held at the stadium.

Review © 2007, Wcities
FIFA World Cup Stadium Cologne (Müngersdorfer) photo by Justin Green
Photo: Justin Green
FIFA World Cup Stadium Cologne (Müngersdorfer) photo by justfordream
Photo: justfordream
FIFA World Cup Stadium Cologne (Müngersdorfer) photo by Marc John
Photo: Marc John
FIFA World Cup Stadium Cologne (Müngersdorfer) photo by transCam
Photo: transCam
FIFA World Cup Stadium Cologne (Müngersdorfer) photo by Michael Gibbon
Photo: Michael Gibbon
FIFA World Cup Stadium Cologne (Müngersdorfer) photo by buzzt
Photo: buzzt
FIFA World Cup Stadium Cologne (Müngersdorfer) photo by Jim Frayling
Photo: Jim Frayling
FIFA World Cup Stadium Cologne (Müngersdorfer) photo by griffscr20
Photo: griffscr20
 

 
Farina House


Fragrances of Cologne
Obenmarspforten 21
Altstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
From the beginning of the 17th century, Johann Maria Farina produced sweet-scented perfumes which were given the name of Eau de Cologne by French soldiers in the Seven Years War. Only in the 19th century did 4711 become a successful competitor to the original Cologne perfume as a result of imitation. Cherubs pointing towards the firm's coat of arms can be seen underneath the roof cornices of the Farinahaus. The Farinahaus was reconstructed at the end of the 19th century by the architects Emil Schreiterer and Gottfried Below. Destroyed in the second World War, it was subsequently rebuilt with minor changes. Wander the museum from 10a-7p.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Farina House photo by Geneviève Guimont
Photo: Geneviève Guimont
 

 
Fish Market


Once Cologne's fishmarket
Fischmarkt
Alstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
There are very few reminders nowadays that the inhabitants of Cologne once bought and sold fish. One such is the Fischmarkt, next to the Rheingarten. The former fishery, which made a good profit particularly in Lent, when fish was the staple diet for the inhabitants of the city, is now called the Stapelhaus. The late-gothic buildings themselves, however, have been preserved in their original style. Nowadays, the Fischmarkt is a charming market square with many pubs and guest-houses.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Fish Market photo by Maximiliano Corredor
Photo: Maximiliano Corredor
Fish Market photo by Matthew Rees
Photo: Matthew Rees
Fish Market photo by Octavio Monge
Photo: Octavio Monge
 

 
Flower and Botanical Garden


The Flora—nicest and biggest park in Cologne
Amsterdamer Straße 34
Cologne, NRW 50735
Germany
+49 (0)221 5 6089 x0
http://www.stadt-koeln.de
The Botanical Garden, also called the Flora, can be found right next to the Cologne Zoo and the aquarium. The nicest way to get there is to take the Rheinseilbahn, the cable car that runs above the Rhine, which lets you out almost in front of the entrance. A visit here is free, and is surely worth the trip. A green expanse covering 11.5 hectares is there for you to enjoy. Now nearly 150 years old, the gardens were previously located directly behind the Hauptbahnhof, but were forced to move because of industrialization. Luckily, the park is now much larger, and since 1920 has been combined with the botanical garden. The entrance is grand, with iron gates, a palace-like reception building and a pond - complete with fountain. There are also various greenhouses, including a tropical house, succulent house and a sub-tropical house. Those with green thumbs will be particularly enthused. Another highlight is the scent-garden, a paradise for the sense of smell.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Flower and Botanical Garden photo by bettyfrascati
Photo: bettyfrascati
Flower and Botanical Garden photo by bettyfrascati
Photo: bettyfrascati
Flower and Botanical Garden photo by Mario Dietrich
Photo: Mario Dietrich
Flower and Botanical Garden photo by Paul Cowell
Photo: Paul Cowell
Flower and Botanical Garden photo by Britta Koch
Photo: Britta Koch
Flower and Botanical Garden photo by Martin Koch
Photo: Martin Koch
Flower and Botanical Garden photo by Joachim Gross
Photo: Joachim Gross
 

 
Foothills Park


A wide open space
Kreuznacher Straße/Kierberger Straße
Raderberg
Cologne, NRW 50968
Germany
The Vorgebirgspark is seldom empty in summer. Walking on the grass is allowed and the inhabitants of Cologne take full advantage of the opportunity. Whether you want to jog, to cycle or just to relax, everything is possible. Children are catered for by the play-area in the south of the park, and in the north there is a popular paddling-pool. The park, which was laid out at the beginning of the 19th century, also has a rose garden, a herb-garden and stands of trees.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Fort X


An old fort used for rehearsals
Neusser Wall
Nordstadt
Cologne, NRW 50670
Germany
Fort X (meaning 10) is an old Prussian brick fortress, built between 1816 and 1840. It is the only one of seven fortifications which still survives in Cologne. After the end of its military role, a rose garden was planted, which gave the whole edifice a romantic touch. Just as contrary to the original purpose of the fort, it is presently used by Cologne's bands for rehearsals as well as, from time to time, for performances.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Fort X photo by Henning Mühlinghaus
Photo: Henning Mühlinghaus
 

 
Früh am Dom Brewery


Traditional brewery
Am Hof 12
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
http://www.frueh.de
Located a stone's throw from the Dom and Hohe Straße, Früh am Dom is a real institution that attracts both tourists and locals alike. The 'Früh' is to Cologne what the Hofbräuhaus is to Munich, except of course, that the beer comes in much smaller glasses! As well as serving up freshly-brewed Kölsch beer, there is a menu which contains a fine selection of local and national specialties. A must for any visitor.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Früh am Dom Brewery photo by Meg
Photo: Meg
Früh am Dom Brewery photo by Paul Marsh
Photo: Paul Marsh
Früh am Dom Brewery photo by Dimii
Photo: Dimii
Früh am Dom Brewery photo by Kai-ser
Photo: Kai-ser
 

 
Geology Museum


Fossils and minerals
Zülpicher Straße 49
(Geologisches Institut der Universität Köln)
Cologne, NRW 50674
Germany
+49 221 470 2262
http://www.geomuseum.uni-koeln...
The Geologische Museum situated in the Universtity of Cologne, will take you on a journey back through evolution. Here you will find stones and fossils dating back 3 million years. You will also be shown actual research methods, with which the geologists recreate environmental conditions, enabling us to understand exactly when and how the environment has changed. Tours are offered for free, though prior booking is essential.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Geology Museum photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Geusen Cemetery


Cologne's oldest Lutheran cemetery
Weyertal
Sülz
Cologne, NRW 50937
Germany
The first Lutheran cemetery in Cologne was the Geusenfriedhof, which is first mentioned in records from the year 1576. The word Geusen means roughly beggar. Those who followed the religious Reformation were originally buried in unconsecrated ground, until donations made the construction possible. Nowadays, the Geusenfriedhof is a park.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Glaub Cutlery Museum


More than just knives, forks and spoons.
Komödienstraße 107-113
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 13 4136
http://www.besteckhaus-glaub.com/
From the oyster-fork to the sugar-spoon, everything that one might need on the dinner-table is on display in the Bodo Glaub Besteck-Museum - many of the exhibits are sterling silver. More than 500 pieces of cutlery from all eras can be seen. Cutlery can also be bought in the museum's exclusive shop.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Golden Chamber of St. Ursula


Relics from all times
Ursulaplatz 24
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50668
Germany
One of the most important legends of the city of Cologne is the story of St. Ursula and her companions. Did the medieval inhabitants of Cologne find the remains of eleven young women or just a Roman cemetery on the site where the church of St Ursula now stands? Only one thing is certain — the Middle Ages saw a thriving trade in relics. St Ursula was for a time the patron saint of Cologne; according to the legend she preserved the city from the Huns. She and eleven maidens were murdered by the Huns, but as the Huns then attempted to take the city they were prevented by Divine intervention. The fact that the original eleven maidens became an amazing 11,000 and that Ursula herself also acquired a bridegroom is scarcely miraculous - just a result of the medieval passion for relics. In the Goldene Kammer in St Ursula's church there are numerous valuable reliquaries dating from the 13th to the 18th centuries. An Aetherius shrine to the bridegroom of St Ursula is also well worth seeing.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Great St. Martin's Church


The Altstadt's landmark tower
An Groß St. Martin
Alstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 257 7924
The imposing tower of the church of Groß St. Martin watches over a crossroads in the Altstadt of Cologne. This site was first home to an abbey founded by Benedictine monks, and although this is now long in the past the church of Groß St Martin, with its clover-leaf choir still bears witness to the Hohenstaufen period. The church was built between 1151 and 1240.The quarter around the church is called the Martinsviertel

Review © 2007, Wcities
Great St. Martin's Church photo by Craig Cullum
Photo: Craig Cullum
Great St. Martin's Church photo by Melanie Krehbiel
Photo: Melanie Krehbiel
Great St. Martin's Church photo by slartibartfast42
Photo: slartibartfast42
Great St. Martin's Church photo by Jonathan Strange
Photo: Jonathan Strange
Great St. Martin's Church photo by _Mojito
Photo: _Mojito
Great St. Martin's Church photo by Danel W. Bachman
Photo: Danel W. Bachman
Great St. Martin's Church photo by Steve Kennedy
Photo: Steve Kennedy
 

 
Gürzenich Banquet Hall


Cologne's number one reception room
Quatermarkt
Altstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 925 8990
The recently renovated Gürzenich is Cologne's banqueting hall - the city's best reception room. Architecturally speaking, this is far from being just another old building. Since its completion in the mid 15th century, this Gothic senate-house has been considered to be the most important secular building of the Holy Roman Empire. The glazed goods lift on the south side dates from the restoration of the building in 1997.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Gürzenich Banquet Hall photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Hackeney Residence


The horses' heads of legend.
Richmodstraße
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
When emperors visited the holy city of Cologne, they stayed in a residence which was built for this purpose by the senior minister Nicasius Hackeney between 1507 and 1510. A stairway tower decorated with two horses' heads remains as a memorial to the Hackeney family, whose coat-of-arms featured a horse's head. The legend of Lady Richmodis, who was believed dead, is also connected to the Pferdeturm. When she returned from the grave, her husband is said to have exclaimed that he would have believed that his horses could gallop up the spiral stair rather than that his wife could still be alive.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Hahnen Gatehouse


Medieval city gatehouse
Rudolfplatz
Cologne, NRW 50674
Germany
The Hahnentor on Rudolfplatz is one of the three medieval gate-houses which remain standing from the city fortifications (built c. 1180-1220). In times gone by, this gate, with its two towers, was the entrance used by royal visitors to the city, who came to pay homage to the Three Kings. Nowadays, the Hahnentor houses exhibitions of the work of young artists.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Hahnen Gatehouse photo by Patrick Fürst
Photo: Patrick Fürst
 

 
Hansa Highrise Building


Europa's tallest building in the 20s
Hansaring
Nordstadt
Cologne, NRW 50670
Germany
When the Hansa-Hochhaus was consecrated, the citizens of Hamburg could proudly state that it was the tallest building in Europe. Its height of 65 metres is of course less impressive today. This 17-storey edifice, built between 1924 and 1925, was designed by Jakob Koerfer. It now houses Saturn selling electrical goods.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Haymarket


The old market place next to Altermarkt
Heumarkt
Altstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
A lot has changed at Heumarkt over the last few centuries! These days it mainly seems to be one huge building site, which is actually an archaeological excavation. Like the nearby Altermarkt, it was once for much more than just historians or tourists. The name comes from the Middle Ages when it was the 'hay-market'. In the 17th century the square was supposedly so beautiful that it could be compared to St. Marco in Venice. But don't get your hopes up - today it is overrun with traffic. It was torn in half after the Second World War to make space for the onramp to the Deutzer Bridge.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Haymarket photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Heinrich Boell Square


Cologne's Nobel son
Heinrich-Boell-Platz
Südost
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 (0)221 2213 0400 (Tourismus)
The most famous writer to have come from the city is Heinrich Böll (1917-1985), who won the Nobel Prize for Literature. His frequently sardonic and critical view of the world around him earned him friends as well as enemies in the city. His blunt and savage portrayal of post-war German life accounts for the controversy surrounding the Honorary Citizen Award, which he received in 1983. The square, named after him, was designed in 1986 by an Israeli architect, Dani Karavan, and is located behind the Hauptbahnhof and the Philharmonie.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Heinrich Boell Square photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
High Street


Shopping in the footsteps of Rome.
Hohe Straße
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
Cologne's Roman past remains constantly present. Just by making a shopping trip along the Hohe Straße, which runs down from the Kölner Dom to the business centre of the city, you are walking in the footsteps of the ancient Romans. The modern-day Hohe Straße follows the course of the former Roman main street, the cardo maximus. More recently, the Hohe Straße was the first completely pedestrianised roadway in Germany.

Review © 2007, Wcities
High Street photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Historic Gold Collection


Vital at all times: money, money, money.
Neumarkt 18-24
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 227 2370
http://www.geldgeschichte.de
Some people say that everything is a question of money. For the Geldgeschichtliches Museum (Museum of the History of Money) of the Cologne Kreissparkasse, this is certainly the case. This museum houses a staggering 40,000 items related to money, including old coins, bills and bankbooks. Exhibits feature such topics and items as: traditional money, the history of counterfeiting, piggy banks, and Bronze Age ingots. Each year, the museum creates two temporary exhibitions on money-related themes. Free admission.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Holy Apostle Church


Church at Neumarkt
Apostelnkloster 10
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
http://www.st-aposteln.de/
A tiny chapel that stood on the old Römerstraße in the late 9th century later developed into one of the most beautiful of Cologne's Romanesque churches, standing today on one of the busy streets around the Neumarkt. St Aposteln is the third of the "Kölner Dreikronchenanlagen" or churches associated with the three crowns on Cologne's coat-of-arms, together with St. Maria im Kapitol and Groß St. Martinl.

The later baroque ornamentation, together with the mosaic decoration of the vault, were badly damaged during the Second World War and were not restored during the reconstruction. Some of the treasures once held by the church have survived: for instance, the Heribertkelch (chalice of St Heribert), which is said to have belonged to the canonised Archbishop Heribert (999-1021), who is the alleged founder of the church of St Aposteln.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Holy Apostle Church photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Homeland Museum - Cologne


Cologne Carnival - past and present
Maarweg 134136
Cologne, NRW 50825
Germany
+49 221 57 4000
http://www.koelnerkarneval.de/
The festival committee of the Cologne Carnival and the Home Museum Cologne invite you to the biggest collection of exhibits on the Cologne Carnival here. There are exhibitions on the day before Shrove Tuesday and festival float designs. Information on the Cologne Dreigestirn and various carnival teams can be found here. For musical visitors, carnival songs, songbooks and various recordings are on display. The museum is open by appointment and tours are free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
House of the Golden Bear


A superb baroque town-house
Severinstraße 15
Südstadt
Cologne, NRW 50678
Germany
After the Second World War, Cologne was reduced to rubble and ashes. Among the few houses that survived was the Haus zum Goldenen Bären. This impressive baroque town house was built in 1676, and the date is still to be seen on the wall. The Balchem brothers brewed beer here until the 19th century, and the house is also known as Haus Balchem in their honour.

Review © 2007, Wcities
House of the Golden Bear photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
House on Hanen


Cheeky monk(ey)
Alter Markt 24
Altstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
The Kallendresser vom Alder Markt, a figure of fun who would do his "business" in the Regenrinne (Kalle) with his exposed behind hanging from the Haus zur Sonne. This house was located at the perimeter of the neutral territory occupied by the Benedictine abbey. The monks apparently handed over a criminal so that he would be brought to justice, even though he had sought sanctuary with them. Legend has it that the inhabitants of the Alter Markt, reacted to this incident by deploying the Kallendresser, who would expose his backside to the monks as they walked by. Today, a new Kallendresser hangs from Am Hanen Haus. The original figure was destroyed in the War. The present one is a creation of Ewald Mataré, who also designed the Kallendresser Order placards. This is how Cologne honours those who have made a particularly significant contribution to the city.

Review © 2007, Wcities
House on Hanen photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Imhoff Stollwerck Museum


A history lesson for chocoholics
Rheinauhafen 1a
Cologne, Nordrhein-Westfalen 50678
Germany
+49 221 931 8880
http://www.schokoladenmuseum.de
Whether you are a chocoholic or not, this unique chocolate museum will give you a delicious tour through history. Situated in the heart of the city, the museum traces the 3,000 year old legacy from the Mayas in Central America to Europe. Since its opening in 1933, this museum receives almost 5 million visitors every year. The exhibits not only focus on the past, but also on recent research and developments. Regular events and promotions are held from time to time. Information is available in English and German in all the exhibits. There is also a cafe overlooking the Rhine on the premises that offers a variety of chocolate delicacies. Special theme birthday parties are also organized for kids, where everything is arranged by the museum.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Imhoff Stollwerck Museum photo by Miss Lazy
Photo: Miss Lazy
Imhoff Stollwerck Museum photo by Angela Reuber
Photo: Angela Reuber
Imhoff Stollwerck Museum photo by ilhan Aksoy
Photo: ilhan Aksoy
Imhoff Stollwerck Museum photo by Miss Lazy
Photo: Miss Lazy
 

 
Iron Market


Old market place with a theater
Eisenmarkt
(Ecke Tipsgasse)
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
The Eisenmarket or Iron market constructed in 1935, is a replica of the original market that once stood there in the 13th century. Where in those days the Ironmongers sold their wares. Since 1938, it has been the home of the Hänneschen Theatre, a famous Cologne puppet theatre, which belongs to the many city stages. You will also find a memorial devoted to the local actor Willy Millowitsch.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Iron Market photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Jan von Werth Fountain


A Cologne romance
Alter Markt
Altstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
The Jan von Werth Brunnen can be found in the middle of the Alter Markt. Jan von Werth (1593-1652) started out as a knight and became a cavalry general. He owes his enduring popularity, though, to his love for Griet. Carl Cramer wrote the "Jan and Griet" song in 1838. Jan courts Griet as a young man, but she rejects him because he is too poor. Later he arrives in Cologne as a cavalry general and meets Griet again. This story is retold every year during the Karneval in front of the Severinstor. The Jan von Werth Carnaval Society walks in procession from there towards the Old Market.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Jan von Werth Fountain photo by cerberusofcologne2008
Photo: cerberusofcologne2008
 

 
Japanese Garden


Landscapes in miniature
Düsseldorfer Straße
Teil des Carl-Duisberg-Parks / Leverkusen
Cologne, NRW 51061
Germany
In the Flittard district, the visitor can enjoy the miniature landscaping of the Japanese gardens. The gardens are admittedly quite a long way out of the city centre on the right-hand side of the Rhine, but it is certainly worth the detour. These magnificent gardens are part of the Carl-Duisberg-Park, which belongs to Leverkusen, and contain blossoming camelias, magnolias and flowering cherry-trees. The gardens are divided into different areas; a tea-garden, a landscape garden and the miniature landscape. The visitor wanders under red gateways and over bridges, past Buddhas, dragons and ducks(both live and in bronze).

Review © 2007, Wcities
Japanese Garden photo by matticgn
Photo: matticgn
 

 
Jewish Cemetery


Old Jewish cemetery
Judenkirchhofsweg
Deutz
Cologne, NRW 50679
Germany
If you go for a stroll round Deutz, then take a trip to the Jewish and Israeli Cemeteries. The earliest grave dates back to 1699. The cemetery is divided into old and newer sections and consists of graves from the 18th and 19th centuries. The way the Jewish gravestones are looked after is very different to the German – stones are traditionally placed on the gravestones instead of wreathes or flowers. The graves look much wilder and to some extent more romantic too and families retain the plots forever, having to renew them only every 15 years.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Jewish Cemetery photo by matticgn
Photo: matticgn
 

 
Kaiser Wilhelm Ring


See and be seen on the Ring
Kaiser-Wilhelm-Ring
Cologne, NRW 50670
Germany
The Kaiser Wilhelm Ring begins at the Christophstraße / Mediapark stop and runs towards Hansaring. The best section is about 100 metres, which the Bürgersteig makes into a little pedestrian zone. It is bordered on one side by designer furniture shops and by a green area with a fountain on the other. Since 1971, the Fischbrunnen has also graced this lovely stretch, where you will see fish, mussels and snails and which adds to the holiday feeling, especially in the summer. Park benches all around invite you to relax. The reason for the greening of this spot was the original residential development plan for this part of the Ring. Today, you will find the major insurance companies have their offices there.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Karl Berbuer Fountain


Bronze carnival ship
Karl-Berbuer-Platz
Südstadt
Cologne, NRW 50678
Germany
Karl Berbuer was a well-known Cologne poet and composer of Carnival songs. A square was named in his honour, where since 1987 you can find a beautiful fountain, also called Karl-Berbuer-Brunnen. Made of bronze, the fountain displays a carnival ship, which alludes to one of Berbuer's songs. On the ship are six figures: The captain on the mast, the Tanzmariechen dancing on one leg (a dancing girl - a Cologne carnival tradition) and musicians. This piece of art was designed by Bonifatius Stirnberg and is found in the Vringsveedel - the Severin's quarter, which is the old town in south of Cologne.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Klingelpütz Prison


Former prison
Klingelpütz
Nordstadt
Cologne, NRW 50670
Germany
For the locals who don't know their history and for starters, Klingelpütz is simply a side street. There's much more behind the name, however. It was once the site of a Cologne prison, which now lies buried under a hill you can walk up. It was built between 1836 and 1838 by the Prussians and was the first centralised prison. Later, under the Nazis, Klingelpütz experienced even murkier times. At times over 15, 000 prisoners had to share this building –overcrowding is not the word. A memorial is there to remind us of the times when more than 1000 executions took place here.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Kolping Monument


A life dedicated to a better world
Kolping-Platz
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
The cathedral curate Adolf Kolping (1813-1865) achieved fame that spread far beyond the local area of Cologne. He was the founder, on 6. May 1849, of the Kolpingwerk, whose aims were to promote a more just and socially-oriented world order. On the same day, Karl Marx spoke in Cologne's Gürzenich about his theory of social justice. The Kolping-Denkmal, created by the sculptor Johan Baptist Schreiner, was erected in 1903 by the city authorities next to the western side of the Minoritenkirche. Adolf Kolping is buried in the south aisle of the church.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Kolping Monument photo by Tom Langston
Photo: Tom Langston
 

 
Käthe Kollwitz Museum


Comprehensive collection of the famous female artist
Neumarkt 18-24
Innenstadt
Cologne, NRW 50667
Germany
+49 221 227 2363 / +49 221 227 2899
http://www.kollwitz.de
The Cologne Kreisparkasse has organised the largest international collection of the works of Käthe Kollwitz (1867-1945). It was founded in 1985, for the 40th anniversary of the artist's death. You can enter the museum via the elevators made out of glass in the Sparkasse branch at Neumarkt. Drawings from all stages of the artist's life are on show, depicting the social misery of her times. Graphic reproductions are also well represented, and all of her bronze sculptures are on display.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Käthe Kollwitz Museum photo by Ricardo Calovi
Photo: Ricardo Calovi
Käthe Kollwitz Museum photo by Patrick Kirsch
Photo: Patrick Kirsch
 

 
Kölner Messe


Exhibition centre
Messeplatz 1
Cologne, Nordrhein-Westfalen 50679
Germany
+49 221 8210
http://www.koelnmesse.de/
Opened by Mayor Konrad Adenauer - later the first Chancellor of West Germany - in 1924, the exhibition centre's monumental halls and auditoriums, crowned by the tower, are a reflection of the optimism prevalent in the country during the 'Golden Twenties'. Used by the Nazis as a detention centre for Jews, Gypsies and political opponents, the exhibition centre was destroyed during World War II, but rebuilt shortly after the war came to an end. With 14 halls, Cologne's exhibition centre is the fourth largest in the world. Approximately 25 major trade fairs take place here every year.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Kölner Messe photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Lacquer Museum


Lacquer art from east Asia, Indo-Persia and Europe
Vitalisstraße 198-226
Bickendorf
Cologne, NRW 50827
Germany
+49 221 588 1248
The Cologne Lacquer Museum was founded in 1920 by the BASF Lacquer and Colours AG and is the only one of its kind in the world. Before the war, the collection was limited mainly to the 18th and 19th centuries. After the war East Asian Lacquer art was concentrated on and today the collection contains over 1000 exhibits which give information on all phases of lacquer art. Tours round the Lacquer museum can be arranged by appointment.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Lichhof Cemetery


Cemetery with memorial for AIDS victims
Lichhof
Altstadt
Cologne, NRW 50676
Germany
The Lichhof, which means mortuary in German, is a former but wonderfully kept cemetery of a Cologne church. No-one is buried here anymore but a conspicuous Memorial stone, a basalt, keeps the memory of the dead alive. It was erected in 1994, only a few metres from the church's choir, funded by the Cologne Stonemason's Guild. A Poem by the Stuttgart lyricist Gitta Benasseni can be found on the column. It remembers a Cologne citizen who died of Aids.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Lichhof Cemetery photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Media Park


New Cologne media center
Im MediaPark 7
Nordstadt
Cologne, NRW 50670
Germany
+49 0221 5743 7400
http://www.mediapark.de/
Designed by Canadian architect Eberhard Zeidler, the Mediapark was inspired by the town hall square in Siena. Seven-storey blocks form a semicircle around the square, which borders on an artificial lake. For years, the city has wanted this to be a district for media businesses. The blocks are still partly empty. The eye-catching Cinedom, a large domed cinema, is a magnet for the public. Agfa and GEW have set up their business here, and others are sure to follow.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Media Park photo by Christoph
Photo: Christoph
Media Park photo by Mirco Wilhelm
Photo: Mirco Wilhelm
Media Park photo by Toros Celiker
Photo: Toros Celiker
Media Park photo by Supermietzi
Photo: Supermietzi
Media Park photo by Jimmy Bernatchez
Photo: Jimmy Bernatchez
Media Park photo by GIACOMO BRINGS
Photo: GIACOMO BRINGS
Media Park photo by irieblog
Photo: irieblog
Media Park photo by André Hoffmann
Photo: André Hoffmann
Media Park photo by Friedemann Wulff-Woe
Photo: Friedemann Wulff-Woe
Media Park photo by docraven
Photo: docraven
Media Park photo by Thomas Biesenbach
Photo: Thomas Biesenbach
Media Park photo by Nika Dybalska
Photo: Nika Dybalska
Media Park photo by Florian Bub
Photo: Florian Bub
Media Park photo by engel.ac
Photo: engel.ac
Media Park photo by Andreas Dittes
Photo: Andreas Dittes
Media Park photo by mpdude
Photo: mpdude
Media Park photo by Joanita Hafermalz
Photo: Joanita Hafermalz
Media Park photo by schokodinatorin
Photo: schokodinatorin
Media Park photo by der bassist
Photo: der bassist
Media Park photo by A-vy
Photo: A-vy
Media Park photo by abstractizman
Photo: abstractizman
 

 
Melaten Cemetery


Resting place for the living and dead
Aachener Straße
Cologne, NRW 50933
Germany
http://www.melatenfriedhof.de
It was Napoleon himself who in 1800 ordered that all burials should take place outside the city walls - in accordance with the burial traditions of Ancient Rome. As a result of this, the new central cemetery was opened on the site of a disused lepers' house a decade later. The name Melaten is taken from the French 'malade' or 'sick'. The cemetery contains numerous old trees which are home to all kinds of birdlife, and between the trees lie two centuries-worth of graves and tombs, including many of the city's best known inhabitants.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Melaten Cemetery photo by elektrant
Photo: elektrant
Melaten Cemetery photo by andre
Photo: andre
Melaten Cemetery photo by kubatodi
Photo: kubatodi
Melaten Cemetery photo by Moritz Guth
Photo: Moritz Guth
Melaten Cemetery photo by Stephan Nägele
Photo: Stephan Nägele
Melaten Cemetery photo by Christian P. Stobbe
Photo: Christian P. Stobbe
Melaten Cemetery photo by Christian P. Stobbe
Photo: Christian P. Stobbe
Melaten Cemetery photo by Oliver Ludwig
Photo: Oliver Ludwig
Melaten Cemetery photo by heXXenbalg
Photo: heXXenbalg
Melaten Cemetery photo by Nina Osmers
Photo: Nina Osmers
Melaten Cemetery photo by Alexander Boden
Photo: Alexander Boden
Melaten Cemetery photo by Werner Krause
Photo: Werner Krause
Melaten Cemetery photo by Espresso5000
Photo: Espresso5000
 

 
Messe Tower


tower with a breath-taking view
Messeplatz 1
Deutz
Cologne, NRW 50679
Germany
http://www.koelnmesse.d