Explore Cologne’s captivating history on the Southside Severinsquarter Guided Tour. This 2-hour walk delves into the city’s medieval roots, from the iconic Basilica of St. Severin to the well-preserved City Wall. Along the way, discover the vibrant pubs and breweries that have been at the heart of Cologne’s cultural traditions for centuries. Led by knowledgeable guides, this wheelchair-accessible tour offers an immersive glimpse into the fascinating Middle Ages. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the city’s past, this tour promises to transport you back in time and leave you eager to uncover more.
Key Points
- This 2-hour walking tour explores the historic Severinsquarter and Cologne’s oldest street, Hohe Straße, led by an English-speaking guide.
- Highlights include the Basilica of St. Severin, a Romanesque church with impressive architecture and religious artifacts, and the well-preserved medieval City Wall.
- Discover the area’s rich history, from its role as a bustling commercial and religious center during the Middle Ages to its deep-rooted carnival traditions.
- Visitors can sample the renowned Kölsch beer and learn about the vibrant pub and brewery culture in the Severinsquarter.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers excellent value for money, with prices starting from $76.21 for groups of up to 5 participants.
Tour Overview
The Cologne Southside Severinsquarter Guided Tour in English is a 2-hour walking experience that allows participants to explore the oldest street in Cologne, Hohe Straße, and discover the rich history and landmarks of the surrounding neighborhood.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour takes visitors through the quarter, providing insights into Cologne’s 2,000-year-old history and its role during the Middle Ages.
Highlights include the Basilica of St. Severin, the medieval City Wall, and the Severinstorburg City Gate.
Along the way, guests will also have the chance to observe traditional pubs, breweries, monasteries, and carnival clubs that are integral to the city’s culture and traditions.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to all.
Explore Hohe Straße
Hohe Straße, Cologne’s oldest street, winds its way through the historic Severinsquarter, inviting visitors to step back in time and uncover the quarter’s captivating past.
As part of the guided tour, guests will explore this charming street, lined with traditional pubs, breweries, and centuries-old buildings. Along the way, they’ll learn about Cologne’s role during the Middle Ages and see how the city’s rich history is woven into the architecture and atmosphere of Hohe Straße.
From the imposing Basilica of St. Severin to the well-preserved medieval City Wall, this historic thoroughfare offers a glimpse into Cologne’s vibrant past and the unique character of the Severinsquarter.
Basilica of St. Severin
As visitors stroll along Hohe Straße, they can’t miss the imposing presence of the Basilica of St. Severin, a remarkable religious landmark that has stood at the heart of the Severinsquarter for centuries.
This Romanesque church dates back to the 11th century and boasts a rich history, having survived wars, fires, and the passage of time.
Highlights include:
- The impressive Westwork, a grand entrance and facade that exudes medieval grandeur.
- Intricate stone carvings and ornate architectural details that showcase the skill of the original builders.
- A collection of valuable religious artifacts and relics, giving visitors a glimpse into Cologne’s Catholic heritage.
- The opportunity to admire the church’s stunning interior, with its towering columns, vaulted ceilings, and stunning stained glass windows.
Medieval City Wall
Continuing along Hohe Straße, visitors can’t help but notice the imposing presence of Cologne’s well-preserved medieval city wall, a testament to the city’s storied past.
This fortification, dating back to the 13th century, once encircled the entire city, protecting its inhabitants from invaders.
Today, a substantial portion of the original wall still stands, providing a glimpse into Cologne’s medieval heritage.
As the tour guide explains, the wall’s sturdy construction, complete with towers and gates, allowed it to withstand the test of time, even surviving the ravages of World War II.
Visitors can marvel at the sheer scale and craftsmanship of this architectural marvel, an enduring symbol of Cologne’s resilience and historical significance.
Pubs and Breweries
Along the walking tour, visitors can explore the rich tradition of pubs and breweries that have thrived in Cologne’s Southside Severinsquarter for centuries. These cozy establishments, many of which date back to the Middle Ages, offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant social and cultural history.
From classic German beer halls to quaint neighborhood pubs, the area’s watering holes provide ample opportunities for travelers to enjoy the local way of life and sample the renowned Kölsch beer, a city specialty.
Some of the notable pubs and breweries include:
- Brauhaus Sion
- Früh am Dom
- Alt Köln
- Päffgen Kölsch
Carnival Traditions
The Southside Severinsquarter is also known for its deep-rooted carnival traditions, which have been an integral part of Cologne’s cultural identity for centuries. Visitors can explore the various carnival clubs, or Karnevalsgesellschaften, that host lively celebrations and parades throughout the year, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant social and festive heritage.
| Key Carnival Traditions | Description |
|---|---|
| Fasching | The pre-Lenten carnival season, marked by costumes, parades, and revelry. |
| Rosenmontag | The highlight of the carnival, featuring the largest parade in Cologne. |
| Gaffkje Drinking | The ritual of socializing and drinking in pubs before the parade. |
| Kamelle Throwing | The custom of throwing candy and small gifts to the crowd during parades. |
| Karnevalslied | The singing of traditional carnival songs and anthems. |
Middle Ages History
Cologne’s Southside Severinsquarter has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, when the area played a pivotal role in the city’s development. During this period, the quarter surrounding Hohe Stra??e, Cologne’s oldest street, was a bustling commercial and religious center, home to influential monasteries, guilds, and marketplaces that shaped the city’s identity.
The Basilica of St. Severin, a massive Romanesque church that has stood for over 1,000 years.
The well-preserved medieval City Wall and Severinstorburg City Gate, remnants of Cologne’s fortifications.
The presence of prominent monasteries, including the Benedictine Abbey of St. Severin.
The thriving trade and commerce that took place in the area’s lively marketplaces and guild halls.
Booking and Availability
With prices starting from $76.21 per group of up to 5 participants, the Southside Severinsquarter Guided Tour in English offers an affordable way to explore Cologne’s medieval history.
Reservations can be made conveniently online, with the option to pay later and benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This allows visitors to plan their trip with flexibility and peace of mind.
The tour is also wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Whether you’re interested in Cologne’s rich past or simply want to discover the city’s charming streets and landmarks, this guided experience provides an excellent value for money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour appears suitable for children, as it is wheelchair accessible and provides a 2-hour guided walking experience. However, parents should consider their child’s interest and stamina for a city walking tour.
Can We Stop for Food or Drinks During the Tour?
Yes, the tour allows for stops at traditional pubs and breweries along the way, so participants can enjoy local food and drinks during the 2-hour walking experience. The tour is flexible to accommodate these breaks.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. The pricing is a flat rate of $76.21 per group of up to 5 participants, regardless of age or student status. The tour is priced as a private group experience.
Can We Request a Specific Start Time for the Tour?
Yes, you can request a specific start time for the tour. The tour offers flexible scheduling, so you can book the tour at a time that’s convenient for your group.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Number of Participants?
The tour allows for up to 5 participants in a private group experience. There are no minimum participant requirements, so travelers can book the tour for their desired group size within the stated maximum capacity.
Recap
The Cologne: Southside Severinsquarter Guided Tour in English provides an immersive glimpse into the city’s captivating Middle Ages history.
Led by knowledgeable guides, participants can discover the Basilica of St. Severin, the well-preserved medieval City Wall, and the vibrant pubs and breweries that have been at the heart of Cologne’s cultural traditions for centuries.
This wheelchair-accessible tour offers a captivating 2-hour walking experience not to be missed.
