Cologne

Cologne

Situated on the banks of the River Rhine, Cologne is one of the largest cities in Germany. Several splendid bridges in the historic parts of the city connect to the industrial areas where major trade fairs and exhibitions are held. An impressive view of Cologne and its beautiful skyline can be enjoyed from one of the many boats that cruise the Rhine, or from the river's east bank.

Cologne's documented history dates from the Roman era and there are some fine examples of its Roman heritage in the Römisch-Germanisches Museum (Germano-Roman Museum). Of particular interest is the Dionysius-Mosaik (Dionysius Mosaic), the dining room floor of a Roman villa excavated during the construction of an air-raid shelter in 1941. The Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) is essentially Gothic, but the porch is a Renaissance-style pavilion. In 1953, the ruins of the Roman Praetorium (palace) were discovered beneath the New Town Hall. In the inner city there is a unique group of Romanesque churches. Cologne Dom (Cathedral), with its twin spires, is Germany's biggest cathedral and took 600 years to complete. There is a wonderful panoramic view of the city from the south tower. As the cultural capital of the Rhineland, Cologne boasts the Kölner Philharmonic, one of Europe's top concert halls.

Crowne Plaza Cologne

Also located in the Kölner Philharmonic building, The Wallraf-Richartz/Ludwig Museum houses collections from every school, from the fourteenth to the twentieth century. At the Museum of Chocolate the ultimate exhibit for chocolate lovers is a fountain of chocolate that visitors are invited to try.