Kassel

　　Kassel is the only major city in northern Hesse, Germany, and the third-largest city in the state. The city’s most distinctive feature is the omnipresence of oak trees on streets and squares, adding boundless green charm to the urban landscape.

　　Internationally, Kassel is particularly renowned for two things: the Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe’s Hercules Monument and the artesian fountain, as well as the Documenta, an international exhibition of modern art held every five years since 1955. Thanks to Documenta, the city has become a hub of contemporary art, while its rich cultural heritage left by the Brothers Grimm has established it as one of Germany’s most prestigious cultural capitals. It is a city where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. The Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe is home to one of Europe’s most beautiful parks and Kassel’s iconic symbol — the Hercules statue. The 600-kilometer-long German Fairy Tale Route weaves through the stories and lives of the Brothers Grimm, with Kassel playing an undeniably significant role. Kassel is also a traditional hub for theater in Germany, best represented by the Staatstheater Kassel, along with a diverse range of fascinating museums. In addition to the Wilhelmshöhe Palace, which houses a vast collection of works by Rembrandt, there are many other must-sees, including the New Gallery and the Ottoneum Natural History Museum.

　　The Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe and its Hercules Monument are equally famous. Covering an area of 240 hectares and designed in the English landscape garden style, it is the largest hillside park in Europe. Through its perfect planning, it integrates nature, architecture, and scenery into an artistic masterpiece.

　　Kassel Reason to visit: The third-largest city in Hesse, Germany Continent: Europe Country/Region: Germany State/Province: Hesse City: Kassel