Germany at a Glance

57 Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) The Cologne cathedral with its two spires (157 m) has been the city's most famous landmark for centuries and the most wellknown architectural monument in Germany. It took 632 years until construc- tion of the largest German cathedral was completed. In World War II, the city center of Cologne was leveled by bombings; the Cathedral was the only building that survived. The relics of the Holy Epiphany found their last resting place in the Cathedral. Other outstanding works of art are to be found in the cathedral treasure chamber. • www.koelner-dom.de Cologne Carnival The fifth season of the year called Karnival begins on November 11 th at 11:11 a.m. The real “crazy days” do not start before the so-called Weiberfastnacht on Thursday before Carnival Monday (February /March of the next year). Carnival is celebrated with parties on the streets, in public squares and in pubs. Traditionally, the gathering of the colorful carnival parade can be seen on Saturday at the Neumarkt . On Carnival Sunday school groups and borough parades take place all over the city. But the highlight of the street carnival is Rosenmontag with the kilometre-long procession leading through the city. • www.koelnerkarneval.de Cologne Sights & Culture 1 2