Founded by the Romans, Cologne is the oldest of the major German cities and still characterized by its 2000 years of history. Cologne has just over one million inhabitants and is the fourth-largest city in Germany.

Since the 12th century, Cologne has been the fourth metropolis in addition to Jerusalem, Byzantium and Rome to bear the designation "Sancta" (holy) in the city name: "Holy Cologne, faithful daughter of the Roman church by the grace of God". In 1164, Rainald von Dassel, Imperial Chancellor and Archbishop of Cologne, brought the relics of the Three Kings to Cologne.

"largest structure north of the Alps" - Cologne Cathedral with its two spires 157 m. in height, has been the city's most famous landmark for centuries and the most well-known architectural monument in Germany.

It took 632 years until construction of the largest German cathedral was completed. After the laying of the foundations in the year 1248 and making rapid progress initially, construction work gradually came to a standstill. It was only with 19th century romantic enthusiasm for the Middle Ages and the commitment of the Prussian Court that construction work resumed in 1842. In 1880, completion of the cathedral was celebrated as a national event.

Thus,in my article,most photos are concentrated on the Germany's largest Cathedral,please enjoy it, however my trip is only several hours there.

Copyright by Zhang Weijie @ 2005