The City

About the City

Cologne or ‘Köln’ is one of Germany’s oldest and most culturally rich cities. It is situated along the Rhine River. With a history that spans over 2,000 years, Cologne offers a captivating blend of ancient heritage and modern vibrancy, making it an appealing destination for travellers. Founded as a Roman colony the city has long been an important centre of trade and culture, evolving into one of Germany’s major urban hubs.

Cologne's history is deeply intertwined with the broader European narrative. Its origins as a Roman settlement date back to 38 BC, and visitors can still explore remnants from this era, including the artifacts and ruins showcased at the Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum). The city’s architectural jewel, the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), began construction in 1248, taking over six centuries to reach completion. Since it was built for such a long time and remains to be under constructions the Cologne Cathedral is often described as a never-ending project. Nevertheless it is remarkably preserved through the bombings of World War II, and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. No matter whether you enter the city by car, train or plane, at some point you will always see the cathedral, sitting proudly right in the middle of the city. The Gothic masterpiece is definitely the most prominent feature of the city skyline. To see this one in whole it is worth to walk over the Hohenzollern bridge to the promenade located on the right side of the Rhine. Here you get the most picturesque view of the cathedral, the old town, and if you look a little further to the left, the Kranhäuser as a modern architectural highlight.

The old town itself is a charming maze of cobblestone streets, brightly coloured houses, and historic breweries, where visitors can sample the city's famous Kölsch beer. Cultural enthusiasts can explore the Farina-Haus, the birthplace of Eau de Cologne, and the Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum), which offers an engaging journey through the history of chocolate. Cologne is also a premier destination for major events and festivals, such as Gamescom, one of the largest video game conventions worldwide, and Art Cologne, among the oldest art fairs globally.

Moreover, Cologne is renowned for its dynamic and inclusive cultural scene, shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and a strong local identity. The city's famous Kölner Karneval is one of Europe’s most vibrant Carnival celebrations, drawing thousands of participants for parades, costumes, and revelry leading up to Ash Wednesday. This event, steeped in tradition, exemplifies the city's lively spirit. The arts and music thrive in Cologne, with a variety of galleries and museums, such as the Museum Ludwig, which houses a prominent collection of modern and contemporary art. The city is also home to a flourishing local music scene and hosts diverse cultural events, including the renowned Cologne Pride. This inclusivity and openness have made the city a welcoming destination for all.