1. I went to an orientation outside Cologne. It was held at a former monastery/cathedral called Altenberg. Here are some choice pictures:
According to the information I picked up, the cathedral was constructed after 1259 as replacement for a Romanesque building dating from 1145. The monastic community dates to 1133! These days, the church is used for both Catholic and protestant worship and the abbey no longer houses Cistercians, but travelers and youth groups and Fulbrighters. The town itself is dwarfed by the huge church, but the grounds remain tidy and peaceful.2. I visited an American family last weekend and we did a little day trip on the Mosel River. Here are some more pictures:
This is Burg Eltz. Never conquered! In its 33rd generation of primogeniture inheritance:
Here is a picture from Bad Bernkastel. The buildings are dated on their eaves and some are as old as 1583! Look at how this Weinstube slants:
I'm moving to my new apartment today! I'll take some picture of my area and my place once I'm settled!Have a great weekend!
