Cologne - Away From Arthur - BootsnAll Travelogues

July 23, 2005

Cologne

John and I had a hankering to see some prewar Germany. However, due to the extent of war damage following the Second World War, original German buildings are hard to find. The city centres of the old towns are actually not old at all, but were carefully rebuilt following the fall of the Nazi regime.

However, Cologne´s magnificent cathedral largely survived intact, although the city was otherwise levelled. Cologne´s cathedral took 600 years to build, however the building displays surprising architectural unity. Originally built in a Gothic style, it was finished in a Neo-Gothic style!

The cathedral is notable for its stained glass. Particularly glamourous windows were donated by Ludwig I of Bavaria. The cathedral is also famous for several sacred relics: the bones of two of the three wise men, the Milan Madonna (reputed to work miracles) and the Gero Crucifix. The Gero Crucifix is famous in the annals of art history because it is the oldest monumental cross depicting a suffering Jesus (ie. eyes closed in death). It is important for the believer because Gero, the bishop who donated it, placed a Host where a crack in the wood was developing. This crack would have ruined the crucifix, but the Host caused it to reseal, signifying the favour of God on this crucifix. As I stood, admiring the ancient handiwork, I had to envision Julie beside me. Julie, what do you think Bishop Gero would have done with Old Faithful?

Afterwards, John and I went for some traditional Kölner cuisine, enjoying their Kolsch beer and some Wurst.

Posted by Jane on July 23, 2005 06:02 AM
Category: Germany

Comments

hehe, that's great, Jane!

You know that I would have loved to have been there beside you. I can't WAIT 'til you're back and I can see pictures and extract stories from ya.

I'm sure that the PR people for Old Faithful would do all they could to keep Bishop Gero as far away as possible.

love <><

Posted by: hehe on July 23, 2005 11:25 PM

Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday dear Jaaaaaa-aaaaane!
Happy Birthday to you!

:) Well, I'm off to work - just wanted to send well wishes your way this morning.

*hug*

Posted by: Happy Birthday! on July 25, 2005 09:23 AM

Well - well - well you've had a birthday
now you're getting really old,
don't you know, I almost missed it
But it's right you should be told.

So I hope you're kicking back;
enjoy a sweet pea for a change
After all this is your first day
being 'of a certain age' ... :)

Or, if you prefer the usual
of pizza-Notre Vin
don't forget to start the day with
some mimosas a matin

Now I have to say (just so you'll miss me)
what a day you would have had
celebrating this here birthday
with the ugly, good, and bad

instead you're far away, but
really who can blame you being there
so i'll remind you (ok, briefly)
that I love you, but beware...

if you find your backside hanging down there
somewhere round your toes,
be encouraged, yes that's what I said
the floor's as far's she goes!

Hope you're having a cackle. Miss you!

Posted by: Like I'm going to own up to this on July 25, 2005 01:45 PM

Wow Jane,

I really REALLY miss you.lol What's funnier is that...like...I'm REALLY impressed at how much territory you've covered. You're like a rocket all over Europe.

Ok tonight I'm marching in the pride parade...WITH the Cathedral. OMG...fantastic...I wish you were here.

Luv as always,
Sterling

Posted by: Sterling on July 25, 2005 01:47 PM

Happy happy birthday!!!!!!!!

Wish I could be with you to celebrate today!!!!

Know that you're appreciated and thought of.

Miss you tons!!!!!!

Posted by: me on July 25, 2005 05:50 PM

Bonne Fete!!

Happy Birthday Jayne
I have no gift for you
I hope El Salvador turns out
As exciting as Europe for you!!

Posted by: Marisa on July 25, 2005 06:05 PM

Mari - you know I am going to Ecuador, right?

Posted by: Jane on July 26, 2005 09:56 AM

hehe. I think I finally got it straight! My first inclination is still to say that you're going to Guatamala "or something"....LOL but deep down I know it's Ecuador.

Posted by: so I'm not the only one! on July 26, 2005 08:21 PM

Jayne !!

I forgot where you were going and Criss told me ... oops

PS the pride parade was great. I saw Chris and took a pic for you, posted it on my blog!!

http://mountainmari.blogspot.com

Posted by: Mari on July 27, 2005 10:53 AM

True, that El Salvador thing was my fault. Mari doesn't make mistakes...REMEMBER THAT!

So everything seems to be worked out with your friend (whom I won't name here). I'm glad to hear that. But make sure she knows that if she ever needs the help she can turn our way.

I saw the parade for the first time. (Have I already told you that I also went to my first club in the village?). It was entertaining. I particularly liked the Western line dancing and the synchronized swimming group (speedos and sneakers are a good match).

We got part B of a post card today (the other part will prob arrive tomorrow).

Miss ya!!!
Kritter

Posted by: Criss on July 27, 2005 10:48 PM

Of Course I MAKE MISTAKES!! I come from a family of mistakes according to my mom (my bros and I)!!!

I'm probably going home soon and can't wait.... I'm so desperate to get away that I will give my 2 week's notice if need be.

When are u going to El Salvador... I mean Ecuador;)

Posted by: Mari on August 2, 2005 11:57 AM

I have to apologize for my comment here. I was already in a bad mood when I read the comment prior to it and reacted immediately without thinking. I realize it sounds mean...sorry!

Posted by: me on August 2, 2005 01:35 PM

Peace on earth!

Going to Ecuador Friday. Gone three weeks, really nervous that I'm going to blow it.

I sent my last postcards from France, hope you all enjoyed receiving them.

Posted by: Jane on August 3, 2005 08:23 AM