As the fourth-largest city in Germany, Cologne was established approximately two thousand years ago, and is subsequently equipped with a clutch of world-class museums, as well as one of the oldest universities in Europe.
A restoration programme to rebuild the city after extensive bombing in WWII has sensitively restored the city to its former glory. Probably the most significant sight in the city is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cologne Cathedral. One of the largest Gothic churches in Europe, work began on this vast structure in the 13th Century. Finally completed in 1880, the 145 metre-long building offers unrivalled views of the city centre from its 98 metre-high viewing deck.