What is Cologne used for?

Cologne (or eau de cologne) is a type of perfume with a light, citrusy aroma and a refreshing impact on the senses. It is traditionally used for personal hygiene and cleansing purposes, and is also used for fragrancing the body. However, its popularity has extended beyond these uses, and it is now one of the most popular fragrances on the market.

The composition of eau de cologne was initially created by Johann Maria Farina in the early 18th century in Cologne, Germany. It was based on the combination of citrus scents derived from bergamot, lemon, orange, lime, tangerine and grapefruit. It also contained rosemary, lavender and neroli, which gave it a unique herbal scent. Farina named the scent Eau de Cologne because of its origin, and it quickly gained popularity throughout Europe.

Historically, cologne has been used as a tonic to invigorate the body and mind. The earliest known use of eau de cologne was by the ancient Egyptians who used it as an elixir to improve their moods and vitality. In German-speaking countries, cologne has also traditionally been used as a form of aftershave to help rejuvenate the skin after shaving. In France, it was popular among royal families as a toilette water.

Today, cologne is still popular among men, women and even children. Men’s colognes often have a woody notes with a hint of smoky scents. Women’s colognes usually have more floral and fruity elements, along with citrusy and sandalwood notes as well. Children’s colognes generally consist of lighter citrus fragrances like tangerine, mandarin and lemon.

Apart from its popularity as a perfume and aftershave, cologne is increasingly being used as an all-purpose scented product for everyday items. One popular example is room sprays; these are largely based on diluted concentrations of eau de cologne and are used to scent rooms or furniture with natural fragrances. Additionally, it can also be used in detergents and other home cleaning products to give them a refreshing scent. You can even find cologne-scented candles to help create an ambient atmosphere in your home.

Generally speaking, cologne is best known for its ability to provide a pleasant aroma to personal items, but its uses are by no means limited to that. As more people become aware of its history and its many advantages compared to synthetic fragrances, it is likely that we’ll see an increasing number of people using it in their everyday lives. For more information on this subject you can read this article written by FeelUnique which provides an excellent guideon all things Colognes!

Insider’s Guide to Cologne: Top Attractions, Food, Culture, History & Hidden Gems

Cologne is a vibrant city situated in western Germany, on the banks of the Rhine River. This historic city has an incredible heritage that dates back to Roman times, and it is famous for its Gothic architecture, museums, and vibrant culture. There are many things to do in Cologne, from exploring the city’s rich history to indulging in scrumptious local cuisine. In this insider’s guide, we have curated a list of top tourist attractions and off-the-beaten-path hidden gems to help you make the most of your visit to Cologne.

Top Attractions in Cologne:

1. Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom): This iconic landmark is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral boasts impressive Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows, and a stunning panoramic view of the city from the top.

2. Museum Ludwig: Art lovers should not miss a visit to the Museum Ludwig. It houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein, and many more.

3. Old Town (Altstadt): Cologne’s Old Town is a picturesque neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional German houses and cozy taverns. It is the perfect place to shop, dine, and explore.

4. Rheinseilbahn: Take a ride on this spectacular cable car and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Rhine River and Cologne’s skyline.

5. Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum): This unique museum dedicated to chocolate is a must-visit for chocolate lovers. Learn about the history of chocolate-making and indulge in delicious treats!

Top Food & Dining Spots in Cologne:

1. Früh am Dom: This local brewery is famous for its Kölsh beer and traditional German dishes. The beer is served in small glasses, and waiters keep a tally of how many glasses you have drunk on your coaster.

2. Fischmarkt: A bustling market by the Rhine River, where locals buy fresh seafood and produce. Check out the street food stalls serving delicious grilled fish.

3. Xing Fu: This Chinese restaurant is a hidden gem in Cologne and offers excellent authentic cuisine. The dumplings and Peking duck are a must-try!

4. Echt Kölnisch Wasser: A classic Cologne pub serving local beers and traditional German dishes, such as schnitzel and sausages.

5. Café Riese: Indulge in rich, creamy cakes, pies, and pastries at this charming, cozy café located in Old Town.

Top Cultural Experiences in Cologne:

1. Carnival (Karneval): The biggest festive season in Cologne is the Carnival, held annually in February, which culminates with the Rose Monday parade. Join in the festivities and experience the colorful costumes, music, and dancing.

2. Philharmonic Hall (Kölner Philharmonie): Experience world-class music performances at this acoustically impressive concert hall.

3. Hohe Strasse: Cologne’s famous shopping street, lined with both upscale boutiques and quirky stores. It’s a great place to shop and people-watch.

4. Wallraf-Richartz Museum: Explore Cologne’s rich art history in this museum, which features an impressive collection of medieval art, Renaissance paintings, and Baroque sculptures.

5. Comedia Theater: This intimate theater in the city center offers a variety of performances, from comedy to drama, dance, and music.

Top Local History in Cologne:

1. Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum): Walk through the history of Cologne’s Roman occupation and learn about the city’s roots.

2. Fragrance Museum (Farina-Haus): Discover the history of the original Eau de Cologne, created in 1709 by Johann Maria Farina, and explore the museum’s collection of perfume-making tools and vintage fragrance bottles.

3. NS Documentation Centre (NS Dokumentationszentrum): A sobering museum focusing on the history of Cologne during the Nazi period, with vivid exhibits, including multimedia and archival footage.

4. Kolumba: This contemporary art gallery is located within the ruins of a Gothic church destroyed in World War II, showcasing a fascinating fusion of history, art, and architecture.

5. Gereon Basilica (Basilika St. Gereon): This impressive Romanesque-style church is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring a stunning mosaic ceiling and numerous Baroque sculptures.

Top Off-the-Beaten-Path Hidden Gems in Cologne:

1. Beethovenhaus: Visit the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, just a short drive from Cologne. The museum houses a collection of his personal items, original sheet music, and a library of his works.

2. Claudius Thermal Bath (Claudius Therme): This modern thermal spa offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Soak in the mineral-rich pools and unwind in the sauna, steam room, and massage facilities.

3. Flora Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Cologne and features diverse plant species from around the world.

4. Hohenzollern Bridge: The pedestrian-only bridge offers stunning views of the Rhine River and Cologne’s skyline. Make sure to stop by and see the famous “love locks,” which couples leave there as a symbol of their love.

5. Kwartier Latäng: This bohemian neighborhood is located south of the city center and offers a boisterous nightlife scene, with plenty of small bars and clubs offering live music.

Cologne is a city that has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to culture lovers. If you are planning a visit to this beautiful city, make sure you check out these top attractions, food, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path hidden gems!