City Guide: Aachen

The name of the German city Aachen originated from the Latin word “aqua”, which means “water”. This happened for a good reason. For the centuries the Aachen’s hot springs with the curative waters were beloved place of the Franks and the Romans. King Charlemagne was so fond of the city that he chose it as his favorite place and built his splendid Cathedral and his Empire in Aachen. The remains of Charlemagne can still be seen in his famous residence. After his death for almost 6 centuries the Cathedral used to serve as the place for coronation of the Kings of Germany. No wonder, in 1978 it became the first German site ever taken on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

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There is so much to see in Aachen: picturesque houses from various centuries, numerous churches and monasteries, two remaining city gates and parts of medieval city walls, unique monuments and enchanting parks. The most prominent architectural landmarks of Aachen you will find in the center of the old town. Among them are marvelous Cathedral with its unique treasury collection, Gothic Town Hall from the 14th century and Elisenbrunnen drinking fountain with the fine curative water. In the city of “aqua” you should definitely visit one of its popular spa centers. Enjoy professional spa treatment, various saunas and outstanding water pools of all kinds in the Carolus Thermen complex.

Attractions include:

- Magnificent Cathedral dates back to 800. The most important relics are the golden Shrine of Charlemagne from 1215 and the Shrine of the Virgin Mary from 1239. The treasury collection contains precious Lothair Cross, silver and gold Bust of Charlemagne and Persephone sarcophagus.

- The Town Hall, built in the 14th century, is one of the most impressive sights in Aachen. 50 statues of German rulers embellish the north facade of the imposing structure. Every year important people from around the world assemble in the Coronation hall with its outstanding Rethel frescoes for the Charlemagne Prize ceremony.

- Grashaus, built in 1267, is one of the oldest non-religious buildings in Aachen. Until 1349 it served as the first Town Hall, now it houses the city archive.

- The Couven Museum in Rococo town house will help you explore the life of middle-class people in the 18th and 19th centuries.

- Printen Museum will take you to the world of traditional culinary delicacy of Aachen. You will see the process of making Aachen Printen, a special type of gingerbread.

- Restaurant Am Knipp is the oldest restaurant in Aachen. Enjoy the high-class German dishes and great beer in the restaurant opened since 1698.

Aachen is the home to the numerous music and sport festivals. Don’t miss the famous CHIO, the world festival of equestrian sport; enjoy Aachen Summer of Culture with the open-air concerts of rock, pop, jazz and classical music. And of course, have fun during the six days of Carnival with the cheerful residents of Aachen, dressed up in the colorful costumes.

You will love the outstanding architectural treasures, high-class spa facilities and vibrant cultural life of Aachen, the favorite city of Charlemagne. Spend your time in “aqua” city with maximum comfort, staying in the cheapest hotels of Aachen. Booked.net will arrange your trip for the best price possible.