Travel Guide to Aachen, Germany

This city was founded by the Romans who were attracted by rich deposits of minerals. For a long time it was just another industrial center, but during the times of Charles the Great the town became very popular and famous. King Charles gave Aachen many privileges and even made the city a residence of Frankish kings.

Aachen is very attractive for tourists due to wide selection of places of interest, ancient buildings and entertainments. Tourists can also enjoy various engaging excursions and sightseeing. Local Cathedral remains the main symbol of Aachen. This church is also present in the list of the world's heritage by UNESCO. This architectural treasure amazes not only by its size, but also by the luxury decorations and design of halls. The main hall of the cathedral is equipped by the magnificent chandelier. This chandelier is the gift of Frederick I Barbarossa. This church is in very good state and has everything remaining on its places. For example, tourists still can visit treasury or see the marble throne of Charles the Great. This is also the place where the sarcophagus with the remains of the great king is stored. This sacred place will be interesting not only from the point of terrific architecture, but also as a point of historic values as the relics kept here are museum exhibits of a great value.

One more sight that is worth visiting is located on the Market Square. Here you will find a gothic Town Hall built in the 14th century. Opposite to the Town Hall located Granusturm and the church of Maria and Holy Peter built in the 19th century. If you like museums, pay your attention to Suermondt-Ludwig Museum that features rich collection of sculpture and paintings. Here visitors will find works related to the 12th century and many exhibits from the Middle Age times. In Koofen museum you will see the collections of ancient furniture, other details of interior and fireplaces. Frankenberg castle is another reminder of the noble history of Aachen as Charles the Great lived here in the period of the city’s bloom. Now this place is occupied by the local historical museum.

Read more about Aachen:
Restaurants and cuisine in Aachen
Local traditions and lifestyle
'Must visit' places in Aachen
Nightlife and attractions in Aachen
Aachen photogallery