Cologne, Germany

We had a European Christmas this year, with a few special visitors from New Jersey.  Grandma and Grandpa Roarty came for a long visit.  Christmas was officially kicked off with a trip to Cologne, Germany which is famous for it's Christmas Markets.  

Christmas Markets began in the late middle ages in the German speaking parts of Europe.  They have now spread to many other parts of Europe and can be quite elaborate.  In the case of Cologne, there are 7 separate outside market areas each with a different twist, one was even on a boat.  It is all about drinking, eating, and buying all things Christmas.  They also build a temporary ice skating rink and have rides for the kids. 

 

We enjoyed the potato pancakes, bratwurst, pretzels, and all sorts of other really good food.  And for every food stand, there was always a stand serving drinks near by.  "Stands" does not even explain what these were - temporary bars with tables, wood chip floors, heat lamps and lights are erected.  

Hugh inside a cave like bar in the market - felt great to get out of the snow

My new favorite winter drink - Gluhwine.  Mulled hot wine, add some amaretto and you will be warmed up in an instant.  I need to get this popular in NJ.  

Check out the people outside in the snow having a drink.  The cafes provided blankets and some even had "fur" lined chairs.   Winter partying is an art here!

Food and drink aside, Cologne is famous for it's enormous Roman Catholic cathedral (The Dom).  Construction began in 1248 and it was once the tallest structure in the world (outdid by the Washington Monument in the 1800's).  It is visited by 20,000 people a day.  It is the most massive thing I have ever seen.  It provides quite an amazing backdrop to the markets.   For an extra special touch, it snowed the whole time we were there.  It really was like being in a winter wonderland!

A few shots from our train ride.  Once you understand the types of tickets you need to buy and do not travel during a snow storm, it is a nice way to travel.  We had no idea you needed to pay more to reserve a seat.  We had a seat for some of the time, but at one point Liam and Brenna were actually sitting in the luggage racks!