Sightseeing in Dusseldorf - what to see. Complete travel guide

Dusseldorf is the richest city of Germany and a large business and commercial center of the country. The streets of the city are full with skyscrapers, office centers and banks. The left bank of the Rheine River is considered a modern part of the city and the right bank is a historical center of Dusseldorf. Either old part of the city or the new one has numerous places of interest and buildings that should be seen.

The most famous sight is located in the city’s suburbs. This is Neander Valley and a skull of the Neanderthal man has been found here. On the territory of the nature reserve is organized Museum of the Neanderthal man, where visitors can see the most precious findings. Dusseldorf University is, probably, the most unusual and beautiful architectural complex in the city. This is a large-scale building that is separated by a transparent cupola. On the territory of the university are organized several botanic gardens, where visitors can see rare plants, trees and wonderful flowers. The university was opened in 1965 and until now this place attracts attention of tourists who come to Dusseldorf.

Travellers, who enjoy walks on fresh air, should definitely visit Dusseldorf Hofgarten – the biggest garden in the city. It was organized yet in 1770. On the territory of this garden are located the Academy of Art, the theater and the opera theater. You may also enjoy visiting Lock Tower that is located on Burgplatz Square. This is just a small part of the protecting facility that managed to survive after five centuries. The tower is a home to Museum of Navigation that features the exposition of ancient tools and maps. Schloss Benrath is a wonderful example of Rococo style. It was built in 1929. The spacious halls of the castle have been also turned into a museum that stores a collection devoted to the history of the city and its development. Erhenhof district is the oldest part of Dusseldorf, so you will find many museums and exhibition halls there. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Among the outstanding architectural monuments of the city, is the city's town hall. It was built in the 16th century and is a vivid example of the Gothic style. It would be most interesting to admire the ancient building from the Market Square (Marktplatz). Part of the building overlooking this square has survived to this day almost in its original form, while other parts of the building were significantly altered during numerous reconstructions. In front of the Town Hall is the sculpture of Johann Wilhelm of Palatine - one of the most famous natives of the city.

In Düsseldorf, many interesting religious monuments have survived. The Saint Lambert Basilica, whose construction began in the 8th century, is of great interest. Originally, in its place was a small chapel. Later, a large church was built instead of it, and in the 13th century a monastery was founded. Now the basilica is remarkable for the works of art of the 12th century stored within its walls, and in the relics of saints, which are considered miraculous, preserved here.

One of the most beautiful in the city is the St. Andreas Church. This Jesuit church was built in the first half of the 17th century, and the “tombs of the Wittelsbach royal family” are located within its walls. When the Order of the Jesuits was dissolved, the church was reorganized into a regular parish church. Outwardly, the ancient church looks rather modest. Its main value is a chic interior decoration. It retains the old stucco molding, and artful painting on the walls and ceiling, and beautiful sculptures, as well as elements of decoration made of precious materials.

Artists should definitely visit the museum Kunstpalast. This art gallery is the largest in the city. It houses more than 100,000 unique works of art. The museum presents collections of old paintings, textile paintings and photographs. Here, you can also see very interesting graphic drawings and glass collage.

In a very beautiful historic building is located the Goethe Museum. It contains a rich collection of personal belongings of the famous philosopher, including illustrations for his outstanding works. Fans of Goethe’s creativity specially visit the museum to see his unique manuscripts and personal effects, as well as letters that he received from his friends and relatives.