Day Trip to Köln

Established in 50 AD by the Roman Empire, Köln is Germany's fourth largest city. Köln is full of beautiful buildings and ancient ruins. It boasts some major attractions including Germany's second oldest university and numerous museums. Potentially the most exciting museum in Köln is the Schokolode Museum (the Museum of Chocolate). While the Schokolade Museum is a must for any chocolate enthusiasts (or just about anyone who likes chocolate), the most famous and exciting attractions in Köln are the churches and statues spread throughout the city.

Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral)

Front of the Dom

The Kölner Dom is the number one tourist attraction in Germany. The Gothic church was started in the 1200s, until the building was suspended in the 1400s. It wasn't until the 19th century that building resumed. The cathedral was damaged but not destroyed during the Second World War and was quickly rebuilt afterwards. The cathedral is the largest Gothic church in northern Europe and is an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tallest part of the Dom towers an astonishing 516 feet and once briefly held the record of the world's

Inside the Dom

tallest building. The Kölner Dom has all the features of a Gothic church including pointed arches, spires, and an intricately decorate exterior. When one looks up at the Dom, one can't help but feel insignificant in its presence. It is very easy to spend hours just looking at the outside of the cathedral. There are so many details and stories incorporated into the exterior, that it is almost impossible to absorb it all. 

After one has awed at the exterior, the interior of the Dom awaits. The high vaulted ceilings seem to soar above you as you enter the cathedral. Both sides of the Dom are adorned with large stained glass windows depicting different scenes from the Bible. Along the the walls are statues of saints and popes. In the center of the Dom is a golden Shrine of the Three Kings. This ornately decorated box was thought to hold the bodies of the three Kings that visited Christ when he was born. Another highlight of the cathedral is the Crucifix of Bishop Gero. It is a statue of Jesus crucified and contains the oldest large cross known to date. The last thing one must do before leaving the Dom is listen to the bells ring. The Dom has eleven bells total and creates a beautiful melody when they are hung.

Tünnes and Schäl

When you are looking for an attraction that brings a smile to your face, go visit Tünnes and Schäl. Tünnes and Schäl were originally introduced to Köln through puppet theater. Ever since, Tünnes and Schäl have been closely associated with Köln. Tünnes is shorter, stockier, and supposed to represent the country folk of Köln. Schäl is tall, cross eyed, and supposed to represent the city folk of Köln. Not only does the statue bring a smile to your face, it is also considered good luck to touch the noses of Tünnes and Schäl.