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Published: August 4th 2023
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Our second night aboard the Viking Magni was very comfortable. Our destination on the next day was Cologne. We had visited here before and had not booked any tours. Most of the other passengers alighted at Lons to do a walking tour of Cologne but we stayed on board. We happily read our books in the Lounge, watching the riverbanks slide by. By 12 most of the passengers had returned in time for lunch as we tied up just opposite the famous Cologne Cathedral.
The weather was overcast and cool. We wondered where the hot summer had dissipated to, but we enjoyed our lunch on board. About 2-30 we decided to alight and see a little of the city. We were berthed near the huge Hollenzollern Bridge, on the opposite side of the river to the Cathedral. We walked up there and wandered across. On the bridge the lovers padlock craze was evident. A staggering two tonnes of locks have been left there by lovers. Fortunately,
it is a substantial structure and can withstand the extra weight.
As we got to the other side a shower of rain made us seek shelter in the Museum Ludwig, a modern art
gallery. However, we got no further than the cafeteria while we awaited for the rain to subside sipping a very nice Sauv Blanc. We then walked to the Cathedral and went inside. It is an impressive building with beautiful stained glass windows soaring above the floor below. We wandered through, admiring the architecture and art works.
We exited and saw an installation of many figures outside the front of the Cathedral. Walking back across the bridge we returned to the boat and enjoyed a drink in the Lounge before dinner. The food has been great. A different menu every day, good quality wine and impeccable service.
After dinner , in the Lounge there was an excellent duo , a pianist and a clarinetist, who played classical and popular music. Very entertaining.
Next morning, after breakfast, we prepared for our excursion. The weather was again overcast and cool, with lots of cloud. Where has the summer gone??? We had a short walk to the buses and were driven to Marksburg Castle. This is a medieval castle, high on the mountain, overlooking the town below. We has to walk up a steep road from the bus park but then were
taken on a tour. We were in the first group. Most of the paths were either cobblestones or worse so we had to watch our footing.A pleasant young guide, Marie, took us through the various rooms, starting with the canons, through the gardens and onto the kitchen.This contained a large hearth and many utensils. Then it was into the grand dining hall where most of the living was done. We were also shown the main bedroom, with a ridiculously small bed. They would sleep half sitting up as laying fully down signified death. Then we saw the chapel, and then were taken to the armoury where there was an interesting display of Armour and weapons.
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