Aachen City Guide
The city of Aachen is on the border of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, and is famous for its natural spa waters. The Spa waters brought the Romans and Charlemagne to Aachen who established Aachen as an Imperial city in the 8th century. Wander along Aachen's historical streets, visit the excellent museums in the city centre, and don't miss the famous Cathedral.
Aachen is 6 hours from London by train.
What to do and see in and around Aachen
Aachen Dom (Cathedral)
Aachen Cathedral dates back to the time of Charlemagne, work began on the Cathedral in the 9th century. Charlemagne's throne is in the Cathedral, and until the 16th century Holy Roman Emperors were crowned in Aachen Cathedral. Visit the Schatzkammer (Treasury) for one of the best collections of Ecclesiastical treasure in Northern Europe, including crucifixes from the 10th century, a chandelier, a Roman sarcophagus and gold work.
Rathaus (Town Hall)
Aachen's gothic and baroque town hall stands in the centre of the city on the Markt square, and stands on the site of Charlemagne's Palace. The current town hall dates back to the 14th century, and on the front of the building are statues of 50 German rulers, in the centre are the statues of Charlemagne and Pope Leo III. Inside the town hall visit the Kaisersaal which contains reproductions of the crown jewels and frescoes by Alfred Rethel.
Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum
The Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum contains works of art from the 12th century to the present day. Included in the collection are Northern European medieval sculptures from the 12th century, sculptures and stained glass by Aachen's own artist Ewald Mataré, and paintings by Van Dyck, Cranach and other old masters, and ancient Greek art.
International Press Museum
The International Press Museum is housed in the "Great House of Aachen" - which was once the city prison. The museum was founded in 1886, and now contains over 160,000 newspapers and publications, and a further 3000 books. The exhibition includes a display of how international press react to big new stories throughout history.
Couven Museum
The Couven Museum is on Hühner Markt Square in Aachen centre, and is graceful baroque style villa. The museum was named after the family of architects who designed many of Aachen's Baroque buildings. The interior of the museum recreates an 18th or 19th century home, and contains antique furniture from the region, a pharmacy, and a small chocolate factory.
Frankenberg Castle
Frankenberg Castle is 15 minutes walk east of Aachen city centre, and is a complete medieval moated castle dating from 14th century. The Castle is home to the Aachen History Museum including models of Charlemagne's Aachen Palace, and ceramics from the local area.
Aachen Spa
The thermal Springs in Aachen were originally discovered by the Celts, when the Romans came to Aachen they built baths over the springs, and Charlemagne enjoyed swimming in the hot water. The temperature of the spa water is a steady 74°, and many visitors come to Aachen every year to enjoy spa treatments and taste the water.
Aachen Fountains
Aachen has 17 fountains in the city, which represent the importance of the thermal waters to the city. The most famous of the fountains is the Elisenbrunnen, built in 1822, where you can taste the spa water. Visit the "Puppenbrunnen" (puppet fountain) is covered in moving dolls representing all parts of Aachen life, and the "Kreislauf des Geldes" (Circulation of Money fountain).
Ludwig Forum for International Art
The Ludwig Forum for International Arts offers an arts space for all types of contemporary art including painting, dance, theatre, writing, sculpture, and music. There are frequently changing temporary exhibitions at the centre, and a library for contemporary arts.
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