A Cologne Legend Bids Farewell

Anton claaßen, affectionately known as “The Long Tünn,” a figure synonymous with Cologne’s vibrant history, has announced his impending retirement from leading his renowned city tours. At 78, Tünn, who has spent a decade regaling locals and tourists alike with tales from Cologne’s colorful past, feels the time has come to slow down.

Ten Years of Tales from “Chicago am Rhein”

For the past ten years, “The Long Tünn” has captivated audiences with his firsthand accounts of Cologne’s “Chicago am Rhein” era. His tours, which wind through the Cologne rings, bring to life the stories of now-deceased characters like “Schäfers NAS” and “Stupse Tünn,” offering a unique glimpse into a bygone era. These tours have become a cultural phenomenon, attracting those eager to delve into the city’s underbelly and here unfiltered stories from someone who lived it.

The Final Curtain Call: End of 2026

Tünn plans to conclude his tours by the end of 2026. I have difficulties with my leg, at 80 I have to break up, that doesn’t work anymore. Until then, I want to make people happy, he stated, acknowledging the physical demands of the tours. This proclamation marks the end of an era for Cologne’s cultural scene.

A Unique Tour Experience

Those who have experienced Tünn’s tours frequently enough describe them as unforgettable. A former gambler and bouncer at the “Love Story” establishment, Tünn is known for his unfiltered commentary and authentic “Kölsch” dialect.His friend and tour organizer, Roland bebak, emphasizes the unique nature of the experience:

The tour has been successful for ten years, people have to understand the humor, they have to be Kölsch, as Tünn is perilous with the mouth. He is tough, but you must not underestimate 78 years. If you want to experience him and this time, you should now book a tour.
Roland Bebak, Tour Organizer

Preserving Cologne’s Cultural Heritage

The impending retirement of “The Long Tünn” raises questions about preserving Cologne’s unique cultural heritage. As firsthand accounts of the “Chicago am Rhein” era fade,it becomes increasingly important to document and share these stories. Organizations like the Kölnisches Stadtmuseum play a vital role in archiving and presenting Cologne’s history to future generations. The city may also consider initiatives to record Tünn’s stories for posterity,ensuring that his unique perspective is not lost.