SIGHTSEEING IN COLOGNE

Cologne is a city with a long and diverse tradition and history. Founded in Roman times and first given city rights 50 b.c., Cologne soon grew and prospered. In the middle ages, with a population of 40.000, it was one of the wealthiest and most influential cities in Europe, with a university, free trade and an emancipated citizenry. Like no other city of the time, Cologne built twelve Romanesque churches within the limits of the old city walls alone. In World War 2, 90% of the inner city and an overall 72% of  Cologne were destroyed, which explains why not much of the historical substance is left or had to be carefully reconstructed, sometimes as a work of decades. Still, the efforts were successful and many historic sights could be restored to be visible to tourists today. Join us on a tour of historic Cologne and experience the charm this city has to offer!