Cologne

Cologne (German: {{Audio|De-Köln.ogg|Köln}} ; Kölsch: Kölle) is, in terms of population, the fourth largest city in Germany and the largest city of the German province of North Rhine-Westphalia. It is best known for its Cathedral, its uniquely brewed Kölsch beer, the original Eau de Cologne, and its celebration of Carnival and Christopher Street Day.

The Coat of Arms of Cologne

The three crowns symbolise the Magi or Three Kings whose bones are said to be kept in a golden sarcophagus in the Cathedral (see Shrine of the Three Kings at Cologne Cathedral).

Related Topics:
Magi - Three Kings - Cathedral - Shrine of the Three Kings at Cologne Cathedral

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In 1164, Cologne's archbishop Rainald of Dassel brought the relics to the city, making it a major pilgrimage destination.

Related Topics:
1164 - Rainald of Dassel - Relics

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The eleven flames are a reminder of the Britannic princess St. Ursula and her legendary 11,000 virgin companions who were supposedly martyred by Attila the Hun at Cologne for their Christian faith in 383 A.D. In reality, the entourage of St. Ursula and the number of victims was probably significantly smaller.

Related Topics:
St. Ursula - Attila the Hun - Christian - 383

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