Aachen

　　Aachen is located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, near the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands. It is a city where you can experience, reflect on, and perceive the charm of Europe. Since the time of Charlemagne, it has represented the spiritual roots, values, and ideals of the European continent. Starting in 1950, the city has awarded the “Charlemagne Prize” at the Town Hall to honor those who have contributed to European unity.

　　Aachen is famous for its hot springs, which are among the hottest in Central Europe. Since the 1st century AD, it has been a renowned spa destination. A stroll through the inner city feels like a journey through centuries of history. Notable attractions include the Town Hall and Aachen Cathedral. The Town Hall was built in 1353 from the ruins of Charlemagne’s palace and stands as a testament to the heyday of the traditional bourgeoisie. Aachen Cathedral is the first cathedral in Northern Europe, and for centuries, nearly all German kings were crowned here. The annual International CHIO Aachen Equestrian Competition is one of the most important equestrian festivals in the world and a source of great pride for the city, attracting 50,000 enthusiastic spectators to the arena. The International Newspaper Museum houses around 200,000 newspapers and printed materials in approximately thirty languages from all over the world, spanning various historical periods.

　　The world-renowned training and equestrian competition CHIO is a major folk festival in Aachen, held every August, attracting horse-loving visitors from around the globe. From the week before Easter to the week after Easter, various exciting activities and entertainment, including roller coasters, bumper cars, and mazes, take place in Aachen’s squares.

　　Aachen Must-visit reason: Germany’s renowned spa city Continent: Europe【Europe】 Country/Region: Germany[Germany] Province/State: North Rhine-Westphalia [North Rhine-Westphalia] City: Aachen [Aachen]