Monday, April 22, 2013

Day 30 Am Cologne: NS Dokumentationszentrum (El-De-Haus: Gestapo headquaters and gaols) and Moselle Valley





We were unable to visit NS Dokumentationszentrum when we were in Cologne, so were keen to head out this morning before leaving for Koblenz. We were not keen on seeing a lot of war stuff – too emotional and we all abhor the horrors and atrocities committed, but I read this was a very good museum...and it was. The goals where innocent people were held and tortured was awful and the farewell messages carved on the walls (by young women in their early 20s) before execution and after torture were so sad and horrible. But, it was very informative and did detail the rise of the Nazi movement in Germany.
Koblenz is only about 1 ½ hours out of Cologne – but seems like a lifetime away.We spent the afternoon driving along the Moselle River, taking the route from Koblenz to Cochem. Went through little villages such as Mudener St. Castorhohle, Hatzenport and Alkener Burgberg. As you can see by the photos it is postcard perfect every time you drive around a bend. The valley has vines growing up the sides (because it is a major wine growing area) and castles up in the hills. Stopped off at a beautiful place and Rick sampled a local moselle from the grower...while I had...a cappacino. It was a peaceful, beautiful day. Tomorrow we take the other side and drive down the Rhine Valley.

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