Cologne (Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire)

Located in the western region of the Holy Roman Empire, Cologne is a bustling city with a rich history and a thriving economy. Founded by the Romans over 2,000 years ago, it is one of the oldest cities in Europe and a center of commerce and culture.

• Coat of arms/Flag – The coat of arms of Cologne features three crowns symbolizing the Three Wise Men, who are believed to be buried in the city’s cathedral.
• Motto – “No city on earth is more noble than Cologne”
• Status – City
• General Alignment – Lawful Good
• Corruption – 1; Crime – 6; Economy + 8; Law + 8; Lore + 9; Society + 9
• Settlement size – Large city
• Qualities – Holy City, Cultural Melting Pot
• Danger –
• Demographics – Humans, Dwarves, Elves, Halflings, and Gnomes are all common in Cologne. The city is also home to a significant number of half-elves and half-orcs.
• Country – Holy Roman Empire
• Government – The city is governed by a council of patricians, who are wealthy and influential citizens. The archbishop of Cologne also holds significant power and influence.
• Legislature – City Council
• Population – Approximately 40,000
• Places of interest – Cologne Cathedral, St. Gereon’s Basilica, Museum Ludwig, Great St. Martin Church, Romano-Germanic Museum
• Current Ruler – Archbishop of Cologne
• Other Notable residents – Konrad von Hochstaden, Archbishop of Cologne, Albertus Magnus, Dominican friar and scholar, Christman Genipperteinga notorious serial killer
• Marketplace – Base Value: 1,000 gp Purchase Limit: 5,000 gp Spellcasting: 9th level
• Minor Items: 4d4; Medium Items: 3d4; Major Items: 2d4

The city of Cologne sits on the banks of the Rhine River, a major transportation route that connects the region to other parts of Europe. Its strategic location has made it an important trading hub for centuries, attracting merchants and traders from all over the world. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves and wild boars.

Legend has it that the city is also home to a creature known as the Cologne Cathedral Gargoyle. According to local folklore, the gargoyle is a shape-shifting creature that takes the form of a stone statue during the day, only to come to life at night to roam the city streets. While there is no evidence to support this claim, the gargoyle has become a beloved symbol of the city and is featured in many local legends and stories.

Despite its long history, Cologne is also a city that embraces modernity. Its bustling streets are filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and its thriving art scene attracts artists and performers from around the world. Visitors to Cologne can explore its many museums and galleries, including the Museum Ludwig, which houses one of the largest collections of modern art in Europe.

In summary, Cologne is a city with a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a thriving economy. Its location on the banks of the Rhine River and its strategic importance as a trading hub have made it a center of commerce and culture for centuries. With its mix of ancient landmarks and modern amenities, it is a city that offers something for everyone.

Located southwest from Cologne is the small town of Kerpen home of the notorious serial killer Christman Genipperteinga.