Travel tips: Aachen, Germany - King Charlemagne & Crowning cathedral

A one hour bus, train or car ride from Maastricht south is Aken, or in Dutch, Aachen, a medieval small charming city. It sits in North Rhine-Westphalia and borders Belgium and the Netherlands with the Wurm river flowing through.  It developed from a Roman bath settlement and became the preferred medieval Imperial residence of Emperor Charlemagne of the Frankish Empire.  In the old town you can follow the Charlemagne route by finding golden tiles on the cobbled stones route path.

 

From 936 to 1531,  31 holy Roman Emperors were crowned Kings of the Germans in the main Aachen cathedral .  It is huge and incredibly decorated.  In blue marble, jewels and gold internally, with gold and stone figures on the outside.

 

As it was Ascension day, there were white roses adorning the entire entrance and gothic balcony, carved in the style of mini windows below its actual huge windows with stained glass above.  

 

 

Inside the Aachen cathedral  

 

Stunning blue marble pillars

Strolling through Aachen's its medieval narrow alleys and  historic squares of more than 2000 year-old history, you pass fountains, quaint cafes and restaurants and lively street life.  The imposing main Cathedral dominates the  view and walking around it to the other side away from the historic town brings you to the Treasure chest (old gold store) Schatkist and the town hall (Rathaus)on Katschhof square.  Lots to see all along, between the  city hall the Bahkauv, and the main Hof square. 

A smaller cathedral next to the main crowning one, next to the “Schatkist” Treasury.  Just follow the signboards, golden street squares or look out for the church steeples to guide you. 

All the European country flags are on the main Katschof square, together with a fountain and lovely architectural wonders, now restaurants or hotels.

 

    

  

                                The theatre, train station and castle ports on the outskirts of town.

 

That’s all happy travelling!!