Cologne/Köln - Part 2

On Thursday (7/29), we visited Cologne and had a really great time. The weather was warm and windy, but it wasn't too humid. After we figured out the Cologne subway system we were primed for our adventure.

The first stop was, of course, Cologne's most famous landmark, the Dom. It is a beautiful Gothic cathedral that was begun in the 13th century. It suffered heavy damage during World War II and when you see the stained glass windows you can tell (or at least pretend to) which ones are originals. It seemed to me that the light shines through them differently. Maybe the glass is thicker or something.

After touring the inside and viewing the artwork and the beautiful stained glass windows, we climbed over 500 stairs to the near-top of the south tower. Of course, we had to stop about half way to check out the bells and catch our breath! However, I will say I am in better shape now than when I climbed St. Peter's in Rome. I wasn't panting nearly so bad when I reached the top! It is also a good thing that I am not afraid of heights, because though most of the way up the stairs are enclosed, the last 50 or so are semi-open and you can see an awful long way down! After we came back down we visited the Treasury. Compared to the Vatican's treasury it is quite modest, but it is still impressive to see all the gold and jewels.

photo by blondelibrarian

After the Dom, we took a walk along the Rhine on our way to visit the Chocolate Museum. It details the history and process of chocolate making. There is a small manufacturing demonstration and you get free samples! If that wasn't enough, there is the obligatory gift/souvenir shop where you can buy anything and everything chocolate! A. and I were in Heaven!

Our last stop was at 4711; the boutique that is famous for its "eau de cologne" (water of Cologne - that's French, not German). There was a little exhibit that explained how a monk brought a secret formula to Cologne and in its heyday "Cologne" was ingested and honored as a magic elixir. Today it is merely the world's most famous perfume and to this day, the formula for "Cologne" remains secret.

By that time it was nearly time for dinner, so we jumped on the subway and headed back to the in-laws. A couple of hours later we were stuffing ourselves with Greek food and wine.

Friday we did a little more shopping, took a nap, packed up the cats in the car, and in the evening headed home. I love to travel, but I always appreciate coming home and sleeping in my own bed.

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You can see more pictures from my trip to Cologne in my photo album.