Köln Ebertplatz Brunnenplastik mit Sitzgelegenheiten
Johannes Höhn, Köln Ebertplatz Brunnenplastik mit Sitzgelegenheiten

The hospitableThe Cologne way of life

There's always something going on with me. I like that! I like having lots of people around me. No matter where they come from, what language they speak or what gender they are. After all, every Jeck is different, as the people here in Cologne say. And my tolerance and Cologne hospitality are known far beyond my borders. But of course I know that most people don't come to me on the Rhine just because of me and my cheerful nature. Every year, I count six million visitors alone who want to take a look at my landmark, Cologne Cathedral. Some of them even climb onto the roof of the Gothic church, which is a Unesco World Heritage Site. This is certainly not everyone's cup of tea, but the view from up there is truly stunning. Do you have a head for heights? Or do you prefer to stay on the ground?

By the way, if you're standing on the Domplatte, you're on my left bank of the Rhine. That's important to know. But you have the best view of the church and my skyline from the other bank, from the so-called "Schäl Sick". Once you're here, on the right bank of the Rhine, be sure to visit Cologne-Mülheim. This trendy neighbourhood is known for its many street art pieces, which you will come across as you walk past. You will find even more large-scale murals in the Ehrenfeld district, which is on the left bank of the Rhine. Can you still find your way around?

Never mind! As I said, there's always something going on everywhere in Cologne. Whether it's in the Veedel, as we Cologne residents call our neighbourhoods, in the Rheinauhafen with its impressive crane houses or on my new Rhine promenade. In my traditional breweries anyway. But watch out, the Köbes (i.e. the waiter) is in charge here - and only Kölsch is served. So don't get the idea of ordering a pilsner in a brewery. That could have bad consequences ...

But joking aside. Of course, I also have a serious side and like to devote myself to fine art. For example, I personally like going to museums. And there are plenty of them on both sides of the Rhine. The Wallraf-Richartz-Museum, for example, has an extensive collection of European art from seven centuries, while in the Museum Ludwig you will mainly come across big names from the international pop art scene and German expressionism. Another very special place is the "Kolumba" of the Archdiocese of Cologne. The building near the cathedral is a church, museum and architectural masterpiece all in one.

After a brief moment of silence, I usually treat myself to a trip to the Chocolate Museum right on the Rhine. It's not exactly high art. But sooo delicious!

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