Explain to me

Roman Cologne had it all nearly 500 years ago: high-level politics and family disputes, high art and waste disposal, bloody wars and jovial festivities. In the middle of it all was the people who lived, loved, and died here. What they left behind tells us a lot about their everyday lives and the major events along this metropolis on the Rhine. But much is still unknown, and today we can only assume what their lives were like. The ten stories about Roman Cologne below contain a wealth of accurate information, while also providing fanciful insight into the people and events 2000 years ago. One thing is for certain: It may have been like this, or it may not have been.

What do animals and art have in common? Well, neither of them can talk. Or so you thought! Here, they speak to you. In ten short films, medieval art comes to life with its depictions of animals and fantastical beasts. Meet old and new acquaintances from the Museum Schnütgen, learn more about the donkey at the manger, of mermaids and griffins, unicorns and dragons, butterflies, frogs, and insects. All of them have their own, exciting stories to tell if you only just listen.

Roman Cologne had it all nearly 500 years ago: high-level politics and family disputes, high art and waste disposal, bloody wars and jovial festivities. In the middle of it all was the people who lived, loved, and died here. What they left behind tells us a lot about their everyday lives and the major events along this metropolis on the Rhine. But much is still unknown, and today we can only assume what their lives were like. The ten stories about Roman Cologne below contain a wealth of accurate information, while also providing fanciful insight into the people and events 2000 years ago. One thing is for certain: It may have been like this, or it may not have been.

The series “Explain art to me” is the beginning of a journey through our museums, in which works of art are explained and brought to life while visitors are invited to take a closer look.