Cologne or Köln, as it is known in Germany, is the other metropolis on the banks of the Rhine. Compared to Düsseldorf, it seems rather down-to-earth. It is home to many TV and radio broadcasting stations as well as various publishers and newspapers. It is also a hub of the art world with its annual fair Art Cologne and its unique array of museums. The Museum Ludwig is internationally renowned for its contemporary art exhibits. Cologne is, of course, also famous for the largest cathedral on German soil, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts many visitors. The history of Cologne dating back more than 2,000 years is well-documented in its Roman excavation sites. Another event that should be mentioned is Cologne’s traditional carnival or Karneval, celebrated with gusto by the locals who keep up the tradition, and broadcast it all over Germany.



The Bergisches Land is near at hand. It is named after the Count of Berg and features an 18,000 hectare nature reserve. The region’s claim to fame is the Neandertal (Neander valley) where the fossilised remains of a skeleton were discovered in 1856 of a human forefather who had lived sometime between 200,000 and 400,000 B.C. This skeleton was named after the site where it was found “neanderthal man” or to be more precise “homo sapiens neandertalensis”. Typical of the region are extensive woodlands, colourful fruit tree meadows and picturesque villages. Their houses feature slate-covered walls and timber frames. The Bergisches Land is a popular recreation area for those living in the nearby large cities.