In Cologne for photokina? Go Shoot Here!
Conchita Fernandes recommends eight of the best and some slightly unusual places for you to visit when you are in Cologne.
At this time of year, the city of Cologne finds itself busy gearing up for the world’s largest imaging fair which is of course photokina. Exhibitors and visitors from all around the world arrive to witness the latest launches and announcements at the event. However, if you do have some time to spare from the hustle and bustle of the event, Cologne has some fantastic places for photographers to visit and photograph.
The Cologne Cathedral. Photograph/Rolf Heinrich, Köln (via Wikimedia Commons)
The Cologne Cathedral
Also known as the Kölner Dom, the 19th cathedral is renowned for its gothic architecture and is also recognised as a world heritage site. Blackened with age, the structure is one of Germany’s most visited landmarks. With its huge spires and spectacular-looking stained glass windows, the Kölner Dom is definitely for those who appreciate architecture and history. With its treasure trove of sculptures and paintings, you wouldn’t want to miss photographing this piece of history.
Cologne Zoological Garden. Photograph/www.stay.com
Cologne Zoological Garden
If you love animals, then you will be pleased to know that the Cologne Zoological Garden features over 7000 animals and more than 500 species from around the world. It is Germany’s third oldest zoo. You can use the opportunity to practice some of your wildlife photography skills without the added danger.
Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln. Photograph/© CEphoto, Uwe Aranas/CC-BY-SA-3.0 (via Wikimedia Commons)
Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln
Adjacent to the Cologne Zoological garden is the Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln, a botanical garden. Free to enter, the garden houses nearly 10,000 types of plants, some of which date back to when the garden was first constructed. Known to house a good collection of magnolias, rhododendrons, coniferous trees and others, the place is a perfect place to make great use of your macro lens!
Hohenzollern Bridge. Photograph/Thomas Wolf, www.foto-tw.de
Hohenzollern Bridge
Constructed over the Rhine river in Cologne, the Hohenzollern Bridge will give you a spectacular view of the Rhine as well as the Cologne Cathedral from a distance. You may also want to visit the area surrounding the bridge at night, as the bridge is lit up in a warm yellow light. And while you are at it don’t forget to place a love padlock on the fence that lies between the footpath and the railway lines.
Melaten-Friedhof. Photograph0/© Raimond Spekking/CC BY-SA 3.0 (via Wikimedia Commons)
Melaten-Friedhof
Maybe not for the fainthearted, but the Melaten Friedhof cemetery is not one to spook you out easily. In fact, several people who have visited it claimed that the trip was a soothing and calming experience. This can be credited to the lush fauna and beautiful tombstones along with statues. You will want to take your camera out and shoot the beauty of the place.
The observatory deck at the Köln Triangle. Photograph/www.germany.travel
Köln Triangle
The Köln Triangle is in fact the headquarters of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). But that’s not why you should visit it. The part of the building that you must visit is its observation deck that will give you a panorama view of Cologne. And of course, you will get a spectacular overhead view of the Rhine and the Cologne Cathedral.
Cologne Cable Car. Photograph/Maxim75 (via Wikimedia Commons)
Cologne Cable Car
The cable car joins the two banks of the Rhine river and gives its passengers a beautiful birds-eye view of the city. Great time to whip out the camera and make pictures of the beautiful Cologne landscape.
Gros Sankt Martin. Photograph/Hpschaefer (via Wikimedia Commons)
Gros Sankt Martin
Don’t get tired of churches just yet as Cologne has several of them to visit. Also known as the Great Saint Martin Church, it was severely damaged during the World War II aerial bombing. Soon after, it was restored and is known for its beautiful imposing architecture and minimalist furnishings. Another opportunity for you to shoot beautiful architecture.
