Aken, known as Aachen in German, is the largest city in the North Rhine-Westphalia region and one of Germany's most popular cities. Its proximity to the Dutch border attracts many Dutch visitors, making it ideal for both short city breaks and longer weekend getaways.
The city originated thanks to the hot springs discovered by the Romans. It has been continuously inhabited since Roman rule, and the Romans appreciated the sulfurous springs. They discovered their healing properties and commissioned the construction of thermal baths in the first and second centuries. The city was given the name Aquae Grani or Aquisgranium, a reference to these thermal baths. The baths remain a tourist destination today.
In the 8th century, the city experienced a period of prosperity when, in 768, Charlemagne chose Aachen as his principal residence. He commissioned the construction of a vast palace complex with a chapel, cloister, and a hall reserved solely for himself. Aachen became the capital of the Holy Roman Empire when Charlemagne was crowned emperor in 800. Aachen soon lost this status, but because Charlemagne had brought precious relics to the city, it remained an important place of pilgrimage. German kings were crowned in the palace complex between the 10th and 14th centuries.
Between the 18th and 19th centuries, Aachen grew into an important spa town. Many magnificent buildings were built, but many have since disappeared. During World War II, much of the city was destroyed. Fortunately, several historical monuments survived. The most important monument of this imperial city is Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978.
Many visitors come to Aachen to shop. The historic city center boasts a number of shopping streets, both large and small. Aachen is famous for its "Aachener Printen," a delicacy found in almost every bakeries and small shop. They resemble gingerbread and come in a variety of shapes. The Aachen Christmas market is one of the most popular in Germany and definitely worth a visit.
