Carnival in Cologne is about as old as the history of the town itself, that means 2 thousand years.But the organized carnival celebrated today only dates back 181 years (February 1823). The Romans celebrated cheerful spring festival in honour of Saturn with wine, women and songs. The ancient Germans celebrated the winter solstice as a homage to the Gods and expulsion of the evil winter demons. Later the Christians adapted the heathen customs. The period of fasting (Lent) prior to Easter was heralded in by "Fastnacht" or ... (more)