Grand, dazzling! Cologne combines history, adventure, and carnival!
Yes, you read that right!
Cologne has the most vibrant carnival in Germany and is very famous, peaceful, and generally very well-behaved!
Cologne was founded by the Romans as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, usually abbreviated to C.C.A.A., and was the capital of the Roman province of Germania Inferior. It was probably founded in 19 BC, making it one of the oldest cities in Germany.
The Franks ruled it after the end of the 5th century, and Charlemagne promoted it to the status of an archbishopric.
Cologne is an important ecclesiastical center, with 12 Romanesque churches and its famous, magnificent Gothic cathedral.
During World War II, several historical buildings in Cologne were destroyed by more than 250 different aerial bombardments, and the city was practically rebuilt from scratch.
Today it is a metropolis, known for its fairs and events. It's a delight to walk through the streets of Cologne; there are countless shops, restaurants, and cafes, and you don't want to leave. The people are kind and attentive.
The city also stands out as an intense center of arts and culture. Many museums, historical buildings, and excellent art galleries are scattered throughout the city. Book and newspaper publishers, as well as several German TV and radio headquarters, are located in Cologne.