Cologne Karneval Museum

Overview

The Kölnisches Stadtmuseum covers Cologne's city history with a special focus on Carnival (Karneval), the city's most important cultural tradition. The permanent collection traces Cologne from Roman Colonia to modern metropolis.

Highlights

• Carnival Gallery: Historic costumes, parade floats, and the tradition of the Dreigestirn (prince, peasant, maiden).
• Medieval Cologne: Model of the medieval city at its peak as one of Europe's largest.
• Eau de Cologne: The city's fragrance history from Farina to 4711.

History

The museum occupies the historic Zeughaus (arsenal) built in 1594. The Carnival collection has grown to become the most comprehensive archive of Rhenish Carnival culture.

Visitor Tips

• Plan visits around Karneval season (November 11 – Ash Wednesday) for live events and street festivities.
• The Weiberfastnacht (Women's Carnival Day) launch is the Thursday before Ash Wednesday.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.