Here is a little information about the cathedral: Construction of Cologne Cathedral began in 1248 and took until 1880 to complete. The cathedral is one of the world's largest churches and the largest Gotchi church in Northern Europe. For four years, 1880-84, it was the tallest structure in the world, until the completion of the Washington Monument and it has the second-tallest church spires. Because of its enormous twin spires, it also presents the largest facade of any church in the world.
After our visit to the cathedral we stopped in at a local pub for some German fare of Wurst, kraut and potatoes at Fruh am Dom. Then we headed to Museum Ludwig, a museum of modern art, which houses the largest collection of Picasso in all of Europe and also features many works by Andy Warhol. We enjoyed the beautiful warm day by walking around the city, stopping for a drink on the river and seeking out an authentic German restaurant for dinner. We had dinner at Gaststatte Lommerzheim in the beer garden and had their specialty, Pork kotellet and frites . . . it was delicious (even the orange European ketchup that tastes like curry was good) but a heart attack waiting to happen!!! I am really glad we tried the local food but I am SO full and feel like I consumed a gallon of fat/grease/oil!
Of course the day was not done without a little drama. We walked back to the other side of the city where we parked to find out that the parking ramp was closed for the night and also closed Sunday (tomorrow). What we had thought was the price of parking (14.45) was actually the time the ramp closed on Saturday's. We ended up walking to the train station to check out our options for train rides back to Maastricht which was a 4 hour train ride (it was only 1 hour by car) and we would get back at 3am. Good thing Sarah ended up asking some police officers for help as they called the parking garage owners who agreed to meet us there to unlock the gates. We got our car out safely and headed back home. All in all we had a fantastic day in Germany!
Cologne Cathedral
Inside the beautiful gothic cathedral
views from the top of the church tower
Hohenzollern Bridge (also called the Locking Bridge)
The Locking Bridge is covered in padlocks placed by couples to show their loyalty. The locks have their names and a significant date inscribed.
View of Cologne from the other side of the Rhine River
Lunch at Fruh am Dom
Dinner at Gaststatte Lommerzheim
Deep Fried Pork Cutlet!!!!
Beautiful evening view of the cathedral towers and bridge
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