Aachen City Can Be Fun For Anyone
Aachen has a small-feel city with a big history. It was the center of the Carolingian Empire, the Holy Roman Empire—a decision made by Charlemagne, the father of Europe. If you try to find it on most “must see” lists, it’s not there. Not even on something obvious like “must see historical cities in Germany.”
However, Aachen did make it on to one of the ultimate lists of important places. The Aachen Cathedral was one of the first three sites UNESCO inscribed in Europe, in the very first list with a total of only 13 sites.
The city’s iconic symbol is the Aachen Cathedral. It didn’t exist in Charlemagne’s time, but the site was where he had his palace. His remains are in the Palatine Chapel, which is part of the Aachen Cathdral today. The throne used for Charlemagne’s coronation is still there. It was also used to coronate Ottonian/German Kings for around 600 years, and even Napoleon considered it for his inauguration.
Like most European city centers, grassy patches in the summer are filled with people enjoying the sun. Aachen’s central grassy patch is the Elisengarten. In the middle of Elisengarten, a free exhibit awaits in the form of an open steel frame and glass enclosure. Inside is a look into the earth, the settlement history of the city.
The ancient foundations and artifacts are on display, left as found in an archaeological dig. Etched around the glass is the story of the people and things who have called Aachen home since the Neolithic age. It exemplifies how Aachen makes its history relevant and part of their landscape.
What makes it special to you?
Aachen’s in the German state of NordRhein Westfalen (NRW), where I’ve lived for four years. Most expats I know here take advantage of the ease of travel by visiting places outside of our state or outside of Germany—those places more frequently appearing on “must-see” lists.
I love the idea of traveling like a local, but there’s an idea that I relate to more: treating the local like a traveler. As an expat, it’s almost even more important since I know my time is limited.
I’m in the process of creating a resource for expats living in the NRW. It focuses on big and small sites and attractions right here. Researching the information, I rediscovered Aachen. I love history, and am ashamed that it took me so long to take that trip an hour away from my home. When I went there, I was impressed. The city isn’t large, and it’s not filled with tourists or touristy things. It’s simply a nice destination with historical significance and authenticity.
As a whole, the NRW is not a popular destination for tourists to Europe, except for the Cologne Cathedral. I have found so many intriguing places and stories working on my details site. Most of the time I ask myself if the places I’m looking for would be worth it for someone living in this state to visit. Aachen, however, is a place I would recommend to anyone visiting Europe to make a detour to.
What’s the best way to get around town?
Aachen’s old town and historical center is small enough to see by foot. Public transportation is also clean and reliable. There are also bike paths available.
Any other areas around that can’t be missed?
Aachen borders the Netherlands and Belgium. Just outside the city is the Drielandenpunt, or three-country-point, the spot where these three borders meet. It also marks the highest point in the Netherlands.