The old part of Cologne where I found all the historical pubs - aka bierhaus's
As I’ve mentioned in an earlier post, at first I was having trouble finding the gems in Cologne. Then one day, roaming about not really trying to hard to find anything, I really started to see the city. I got down to an area where there was a large open square called Huemarkt and discovered this lovely restored old area of Cologne with narrow alleys and pedestrian ways and lots and lots of restaurants or brauhaus.
1626 - the historic Brauhaus
The place was hopping with people and the buildings were charming and full of character. This was what I had been trying to find – the personality and flavour of Cologne, the older Cologne that has been retained. Of course beer and Germany have a strong relationship as we all know about Oktoberfest. Here in Cologne the main beer is Kolsch. This is brewed here. And there is quite a history behind it. It has been around for awhile but after the second world war a man named Hans Sion was instrumental in being the first one to get permission from the occupying forces to begin brewing the beer again. This is a top-fermented golden yellow beer and has become synonymous with Cologne. When you ask for a Kolsch they only serve it in these tall narrow 0.20 ml glasses for the change out of your pocket.
The Kolsch display in the museum with all its characteristic traits - glasses, carrying trays and what the waiter used to look like
Not that I spend too much time in the pubs here but there is something very comforting about the pub atmosphere. Something about the environment. Perhaps it is just something that I have had a lot of exposure to throughout my life due to my British upbringing but they really are that neighbourhood common get together area. But I carried on to check out some more of the area. I came across colourful old buildings along the river front and the lovely contrast between their quaint character against the grandeur of the still present ancient churches.
The colourful and the grey
It’s all these little treasures hidden amongst the more modern creations that add to Cologne’s young and vibrant personality.
Hey - whadju lookin' at!
I just have one question: how many glasses of that Kolsch did you have?
I’m glad that you finally stumbled on the older Cologne….it looks beautiful. I love those colourful buildings and how they are attached.
I see that you found more bronze statues….hahaha. Are these for sale?
I could tell you how many I had but then I would have to kill you!!!! Just joking. The problem with these little glasses is that it seems after two mouthfuls it is gone … Yup – those statues are for sale – but how they transport them is beyond me.