#51 Exploring 11th Century Cologne: A Virtual Walk through Time

In this episode, we immerse ourselves in 12th century medieval Cologne and explore the fascinating life of the Jewish community that existed in the midst of a predominantly Christian majority society. We learn about the everyday hostilities the Jewish population faced, but also about phases of cooperation and joint action.

A look into how wealthy citizens of different classes also became rulers that could challenge the city lord. This episode tells the story of how the Cologne "Richerzeche" (brotherhood of the Rich) transformed from a group of merchants, unfree ministerials and court magistrates into a powerful clique who shaped the politics of medieval Cologne for centuries.

In 1128, a devastating fire broke out in the town of Deutz, which lies on the other side of the Rhine from Cologne, reducing the town to rubble. But what was the reason for this devastating fire?

In this episode, we delve into 12th century Cologne and take a look at the various institutions that administered and governed the city during this time. We start with the offices and institutions of the archbishop, who thus exercises his role as the supreme ruler of the city. But we also look at the development of the parish system and the resulting civic decentralised administrative structure of the special municipalities. Whoever previously thought that the Middle Ages were a time of anarchy and disorder should listen to this episode and be surprised!

In 1119, the Archbishop of Cologne, Frederick I of Schwarzenburg, imposed an interdict on the city of Cologne and its inhabitants. This ecclesiastical punishment was intended to punish the citizens of Cologne for their disobedience to the archbishop and their involvement in political conflicts. The interdict had serious repercussions on religious life in the city: church services were forbidden, sacraments and funerals were no longer allowed to take place, and even the bells of the churches remained silent. Why did this happen? Find out in this episode.

Experience a time travel through 200 years of Cologne Carnival! From its beginnings to the present day, we will explore the history of Cologne's famous cheerfulness, celebrate its traditions and customs, and understand why Carnival in Cologne is also always a reflection of its time.

Step back in time and join us on a journey through the bustling streets of medieval Cologne. In this episode of our podcast, we transport you to the year 1100 AD, where you'll experience the sights, sounds, and stories of one of Europe's most vibrant cities. From the towering cathedral to the bustling marketplaces, you'll discover the rich history and culture of this ancient city. Come along as we explore the hidden gems and hidden secrets of medieval Cologne, and discover why it was a center of trade, culture, and innovation.

The year 1106 is an important milestone in the history of Cologne. The people of Cologne skilfully exploit the dynastic conflict of the empire between father and son, thus circumventing the will of their own archbishop/city ruler, maintain legal equality within the city, are allowed to expand their city through new fortifications and put a huge royal army to flight.

We will talk this episode about a small but significant minority in medieval Cologne of the late 11th/ early 12th century. The Jewish community of Cologne.

This episode I would like to take a more general look at this turbulent time, the second half of the 11th century. Which developments shaped this time, medieval Germany and to what extent they affected Anno and also the city of Cologne.  But all that would be far too complex for me.  So I'm glad that Dirk from the "History of the Germans" podcast was kind enough to stop by for this episode.  In our little chat we start off by talking about our motivation why we started our podcasts and then go straight into the action, the 2nd half of the 11th century.