Aachen                                                      Karl der Grosse

Aix-la-Chapelle (Aachen)
 

A city in western Germany, in North Rhine-Westphalia, situated where the three countries of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands meet. It was the birthplace of Charlemagne and the center of Carolingian culture. The Holy Roman emperors were crowned in the city from 813 to 1531. Aix-la-Chapelle is the French version of the name.

Charlemagne made his permanent residence in Aachen and was buried in the cathedral he built there. The cathedral has since been rebuilt, but the Gramus Tower of the historic City Hall is said to date from the days of Charlemagne.

Today, Aachen is a charming town of romantic corners, ultramodern architecture, green oases and bustling spaces, tranquility, innovation and dynamism. Impressive are the historic squares, sparkling fountains, and the venerable marketplace.