Aachen

Aix-la-Chapelle, known to Germans as Aachen, is a city in western Germany, situated near the Belgian and Dutch borders. Its narrative is profoundly intertwined with Charlemagne, who established it as the heart of his empire in the late 8th century. The city's enduring appeal stems from its deep historical roots, from Roman thermal springs to its role as a coronation city for German kings.

Today, Aix-la-Chapelle thrives as a center of science, engineering, and information technology, while carefully preserving its historical allure. The city's fusion of ancient heritage and contemporary innovation creates a singular destination, offering a tangible connection to the past alongside a forward-looking spirit.

From Roman Baths to Imperial Seat

Aix-la-Chapelle's origins extend back to the Neolithic era, approximately 5,000 years ago, with early inhabitants drawn to its warm mineral springs. The Romans established a spa town here, naming it Aquae Granni, after the Celtic god of healing, Grannus. The hot sulfur springs gained renown for their therapeutic properties and have been celebrated for centuries.

The city's true prominence commenced with Charlemagne. King Pippin, Charlemagne's father, maintained a palace here as early as 765 AD, and it is believed Charlemagne himself was born in Aix-la-Chapelle. Between 777 and 786, Charlemagne erected a magnificent palace on the site of his father's, elevating the city to the second most important in his empire and making it a significant center of Western culture and learning. He declared Aachen the permanent capital of his kingdom around 790 AD and constructed a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which would form the core of the future cathedral.

From 936 to 1531, Aachen Cathedral served as the coronation church for thirty-one German kings and twelve queens of the Holy Roman Empire. This tradition solidified Aix-la-Chapelle's standing as a pivotal political and religious hub in Europe. In 1166, Emperor Frederick I, Barbarossa, granted Aachen imperial immediacy, declaring it a Free Imperial City.

The city has confronted numerous challenges throughout its existence. A devastating fire in 1656 obliterated 4,000 houses and damaged the Town Hall, leading to a Baroque-style reconstruction of some elements. The Town Hall sustained further damage in an 1883 fire, which consumed its roof and towers, and again during World War II bombings in 1943. Despite these adversities, the city and its iconic structures were meticulously restored, safeguarding their historical integrity. Aix-la-Chapelle also played a role in international diplomacy, hosting peace conferences that concluded the War of Devolution in 1668 and the War of the Austrian Succession in 1748.

The Aachen Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Aachen Cathedral, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978, stands as a testament to Charlemagne's vision. Its core is the Carolingian-Romanesque Palatine Chapel, constructed between 796 and 805, which was the first vaulted structure north of the Alps since antiquity. The chapel's octagonal design drew inspiration from Byzantine architecture, such as the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna. Charlemagne was interred here in 814, and his remains are now enshrined in a gold and silver casket, the Karlsschrein.

Over the centuries, the cathedral expanded with Gothic additions, including a soaring choir hall completed in 1414, often referred to as the “Glass House of Aachen” due to its tall windows. The cathedral's treasury safeguards an invaluable collection of archaeological, aesthetic, and historical artifacts, including significant relics gathered by Charlemagne.

Aachen Town Hall: A Medieval Masterpiece

The Aachen Town Hall, or Rathaus, is another architectural marvel, erected in the Gothic style between 1330 and 1349 on the foundations of Charlemagne's former palace, the Aula Regia. The Granus Tower, dating from Charlemagne's era, was incorporated into the building and extended. The Town Hall served as the administrative center of the city and famously hosted coronation banquets for German kings until 1531. The Coronation Hall features 19th-century frescoes by Alfred Rethel, depicting legends from Charlemagne's life.

Begin your exploration at the Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the resting place of Charlemagne. Admire the intricate mosaics of the Palatine Chapel, the oldest part of the cathedral, and ascend to the upper gallery to view the Imperial Throne. Take time to visit the Cathedral Treasury, which houses an extraordinary collection of medieval artifacts and relics.

Adjacent to the cathedral is the Aachen Town Hall (Rathaus), a Gothic masterpiece built on the foundations of Charlemagne's palace. Explore the Coronation Hall, adorned with frescoes depicting scenes from Charlemagne's life, and observe the Granus Tower, a remnant of the original Carolingian structure.

Stroll through the Katschhof, the square situated between the Cathedral and the Town Hall, which was once the inner courtyard of Charlemagne's palace. Discover the Elisenbrunnen (Elisen Fountain), a neoclassical pavilion where you can sample the city's celebrated sulfurous thermal waters. The surrounding park offers a pleasant respite. Finally, seek out the Statue of Charlemagne in the Marktbrunnen (Market Fountain) in the market square.

Aix-la-Chapelle offers an engaging experience throughout the year. For agreeable weather and outdoor excursions, the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months are ideal, with milder temperatures. The summer (July and August) provides warmer days, perfect for enjoying outdoor cafes and events, though it can be busier with visitors. The city also hosts a renowned Christmas market, making the winter months (late November to December) a festive time to visit, with the historical center beautifully illuminated.

Aix-la-Chapelle (Aachen) is readily accessible by high-speed trains from major European cities like Cologne, Maastricht, Brussels, and Liège. The city center is compact and best explored on foot, allowing you to appreciate its historical architecture and inviting streets. Public transportation, including buses, is efficient for reaching areas further afield. Consider acquiring an Aachen Card for reductions on attractions and public transport if you plan an extended stay. The currency used is the Euro. Many establishments accept credit cards, but it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases.