World Cup 2006
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City Guides
COLOGNE
The Dom
– Six centuries in the making, this is one of the biggest churches in the world. Its footprint alone is over 8000 square metres. For a fantastic view of the city, climb the 509 steps in the South spire, past “Dicker Pitter”, or Big Peter – the world’s largest swinging bell.
The Chocolate Museum
– This museum was opened in 1993 by Hans Imhoff. It offers a look at the production process, as well as opportunities to sample some unique German chocolate.
The German Museum of Sports and Olympic Games
– A few yards further down the road from the chocolate museum is Germany’s only dedicated Sports Museum. Opened in 1999, it charts the history of sport in Germany, with features on the infamous Olympic Games of 1936 and 1972, as well as the West German FIFA World Cup finals of 1974.
Museum Ludwig
– One of the biggest collections of modern and contemporary art in Germany can be found in this museum, adjacent to the Dom church. It houses a number of important works by artists such as Picasso.
Zoo Gardens and Park
– This is no ordinary zoological park. Included in the area are the Flora and Botanical Gardens.
The Altstadt (Old Town)
- The Old Town tumbles down from the Dom square to the Rhine and contains a host of sites and attractions. The best way to explore the area is to put your map in your pocket, and just wander. The area is full of small cafes and bars where you can enjoy a Kölsch or two, as well as quirky museums such as the Museum of Cologne Carnival Medals in Unter Käster, Gürzenich in Martin Strasse and the Rathaus in Rathhausplatz.
Shopping
Köln’s central shopping mile of Höhe Strasse runs down from the Dom square to Neumarkt. This pedestrianised street contains all of the major German and International chains. At the Dom end you will find the upmarket shops including Hermes and Gucci, whilst towards Neumarkt you will find shops geared towards a younger crowd, including a very well stocked Puma store. The lanes that run off Rudolfplatz are the centre for small boutiques stocking jewellery and designer clothes.
For more in-depth information, check out Stuart Fuller’s Fans Guide To German Stadiums 2005/06
