Cologne is a city located in the western part of Germany on the land of the North Rhine-Westphalia. It is one of the oldest German cities, which played a large role in the formation and development of Europe. It is not surprising, because its history dates back to the Roman era.
Instruction manual
1
As archaeological excavations confirm, as early as 5000 years ago, the ancient Celts had their fortifications on the territory of modern Cologne. However, the history of this city as a permanent settlement begins with the founding of Oppidum Ubiorum in 38 BC. e. This fortification was built by the commander of the Roman emperor Augustus Mark Vipsaniy Agrippa after the Romans-friendly Ubiya tribe landed on the left bank of the Rhine.
2
In the year 15 BC e. in the family of the commander Germanicus, who lives in this settlement, the daughter of Agrippina is born. Having later become the wife of Emperor Claudius, she persuades him to give his native settlement the status of a colony. In the year 50 BC e. Oppidum Ubiorum receives this status and is renamed the Colony of Claudius and the altar of Agrippina. In the Middle Ages, only the word "Colony" was left of this name, and in the common people it was called Cologne.
3
Since then, the city begins to actively develop. In 85, it is declared the capital of Lower Germany, temples, administrative buildings and a theater appear in it. After some 60 years, its population already numbers more than 15, 000 people, while on the other side of the Rhine the possessions of free Germanic tribes immediately began. A little later, a mint and a glass industry appeared in Cologne.
4
In 454, Cologne was finally conquered by the Ripuar francs and the almost half-century Roman period of this ancient city ends. Since 508, Cologne has been the permanent residence of the archbishops, but in 1288 it becomes free from the authority of the archbishop. By this time, it is already the largest shopping center in Germany.
5
Since 1794, Cologne was ruled by the French, who destroyed many historic buildings and monuments in the city. And 10 years later, the Prussian period begins in Cologne, during which the city was actively developing again - it draws a telegraph line, opens one of the first Prussia railway lines, numerous factories and factories.
6
After the defeat of Germany in World War I, Cologne entered the occupation zone of France. And in 1933, power in the city passed into the hands of the Nazis. World War II brought monstrous destruction to Cologne, destroying 90% of city buildings. However, already in the first post-war years, an active restoration began in the city, a new production was launched, banks, company buildings and cultural objects were being built. Modern Cologne is the third largest and fourth most populated city in Germany, with well-developed modern infrastructure, industry and a rich history.
Related article
Cologne's culinary traditions: cuisine on the banks of the Rhine
