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Cologne Stories and Tips

4711--the original cologne

What trip to Cologne would be complete without some cologne? 4711 Original Eau de Cologne is the most famous of its kind.

The legend begins in 1792 when a monk gave a young couple a special gift--Eau de Cologne. It was considered "miracle water" by those who used it. The number 4711 was adopted because a French commander ordered all houses to be numbered. The couple's house was 4711.

What does the cologne smell like? Well, my German friend said the smell reminded her of her grandmother. Not many people wear it nowadays. It's hard to describe. I'd say it smells like heaven and angels, but stronger like one's sitting on your shoulder. The smell is very nostalgic for me.

You can find the 4711 store in the city center between the Dom and Neumarkt. Inside the store the cologne flows from a faucet. So you can try it yourself. If you can't get to the original store, it's sold all over Germany in many department stores.

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