We explore the history of the Neumarkt Square. Meaning “New Market” in English, the square is not that new anymore. Founded in 1076 it has seen a lot since then. Mercator Map showing Neumarkt in 1571 Horse Market in 1880 Neumarkt Square as parading ground in 1914 Neumarkt Square in 1942 Kunsthaus Lempertz in 1961 French Troops erect the liberty tree at Neumarkt Square You … Continue reading #73 A brief History of the Neumarkt Square
In this episode we dive into the first dynasty of Berg (1060-1225) and how they shaped Cologne’s history. The first dynasty of Berg was a medieval noble family from the 11th to the 13th century. The Podcast Player doesn’t show? Click here: Link Burg Berge The first seat of the Counts of Berg. Not much remains since the monks of the Cistercian Monastery nearby used … Continue reading #72 The Lords of Berg
From wielding both spiritual and secular authority to navigating treacherous political landscapes, Engelbert’s (1185-1225) story is one of ambition, intrigue, and enduring fascination. Join us as we unravel the captivating saga of this enigmatic historical figure. Podcast-Player is not here? Click here instead: Link Engelbert of Berg Baroque shrine of Engelbert I., made in the 17th century. Figure of Engelbert in Cologne Cathedral. Seal of … Continue reading #71 Rise and Fall of Engelbert I
An episode about relics, trade, politics and guilds Eigelstein Today’s Eigelstein city gate from the later 13th century. One of the last big three medieval city gates that still are around. Machabean Monastery The Maccabean Monastery in the 16th century. The monastery church here was later rebuilt because a fire destroyed the first church in 1462. The monastery was dissolved at the end of the … Continue reading #70 A short walk through Cologne in the first half of the 13th century
Reconquer Jerusalem with children and without violence? That was the plan in 1212 in Cologne Even 800 years on, this idea still horrifies me. Hundreds, if not thousands, of children are said to have run away to follow an underage preacher from Cologne called St Nicholas to Jerusalem. The destination? The reconquest of Jerusalem. Without weapons and mainly with children. In this episode, you will … Continue reading #69 The Children’s Crusade from 1212
The German Throne Dispute at the beginning of the 13th century continues and Cologne is right in the middle of it. Two Kings, Philipp of Swabia of the Hohenstaufen and Otto IV of the Welfs, are fighting for the crown in the empire. If the German Throne Dispute around 1200 was not complicated enough, two Cologne Archbishops are also fighting for their, in their eyes, … Continue reading #68 Two Archbishops and Two Kings – The German Throne Dispute III
The German Throne Dispute at the beginning of the 13th century continues and Cologne is right in the middle of it. Until 1205, the German throne dispute was a complex struggle for power and legitimacy in the Holy Roman Empire. After the death of Emperor Henry VI in 1197, a conflict broke out over the succession between the Guelphs, represented by Otto IV, and the … Continue reading #67 Surrounded by Enemies – Cologne in the German Throne Dispute
Young Hermann Josef is a poor boy at the end of the 12th century. But his life changes when he offers an apple to a statue of St. Mary. St. Mary and baby Jesus in St. Mary in the Capitol This statue from ca. 1180 is made out stone and not out of wood as being said in the episode. It is this statue according … Continue reading #66 The Legend of Hermann Josef and the Apple
When emperor Henry VI dies with just 32 years in 1197, the empire gets into a 20 years long dispute over the throne. And Cologne has a major part in it. Why? Because of economic interests. Archbishop Adolf of Altena The two candidates for the throne Hohenstaufen dynasty: Philip of Swabia Philipp of Swabia was a member of the Hohenstaufen dynasty and King of Germany … Continue reading #65 The Throne Dispute of 1198
Why is the ugliest square in Cologne named after an emperor from the 12th century? Emperor Frederick I, also known as Barbarossa, was not always the best friend of Cologne. Nonetheless he was very important for Cologne’s development in the Middle Ages. Learn more about it in this episode. Barbarossaplatz Barbarossaplatz around 1900 Barbarossaplatz today Seven (!) main streets cross the square with cars and … Continue reading #64 Barbarossa and Cologne
The History of Cologne Podcast 
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