Welcome to Aachen, a historically important city, spa and university centre in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Aachen is located at the intersection of three countries: Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. It's often referred to as the "Three-Country Corner" or "Dreiländereck."
The area where Aachen is located has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The name "Aachen" is derived from the Old High German word "aha," meaning "water," and "ahha," meaning "river." Aachen has been a spa town for centuries, with its hot springs attracting visitors since Roman times. The Elisenbrunnen fountain is a testament to this thermal water heritage.
The city is famous for its unique gingerbread cookies called "Aachener Printen." These sweet and spicy treats have been made in the city for centuries and are popular souvenirs.
Aachen hosts the CHIO Aachen, one of the world's most prestigious equestrian events. The tournament attracts top riders and horse enthusiasts from around the globe.
My city walk starts at Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe. The Palatine Chapel within Aachen Cathedral is a masterpiece of Carolingian architecture. Its octagonal design and intricate decorations showcase the craftsmanship of the time. Then I proceed to the Elisenbrunnen and show the Kreislauf des Geldes fountain. The Elisenbrunnen is an iconic neoclassical pavilion features 2 sulfurous drinking fountains. The Elisenbrunnen was originally designed to provide access to the city's mineral-rich thermal waters. Today, while the fountain's water is no longer directly used for drinking, it remains a nostalgic and historic site. The Kreislauf des Geldes fountain, the name roughly translating as Cycle of Money, depicts characters symbolizing succession, greed, avarice, generosity and begging.
From there I make my way to the Old Town (Altsadt) and stop stop by the Puppet Fountain (Puppenbrunnen). The Puppenbrunnen is considered a beloved local landmark and is often associated with Aachen's identity. The fountain features a collection of bronze sculptures that resemble puppets or marionettes. These sculptures are arranged around the fountain and depict various characters and figures.
Then I head to the Market Square (Markt) where the Town Hall (Rathaus) of Aachen is located. The Markt is the Aachen's central square, bustling with activity and surrounded by picturesque buildings. The Rathaus is a historic building with a distinctive Gothic architecture and has been a significant landmark in Aachen for centuries.
I cross the square and continue my walk to the Church of the Holy Cross (Pfarrkirche Heilig Kreuz). The Pfarrkirche Heilig Kreuz is a Catholic parish church with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. It has played a significant role in the religious life of Aachen and is an important spiritual center for the community.
I finish the city tour at the Pont Gate (Ponttor), one of the remaining medieval city gates of Aachen, Germany. The Ponttor was originally constructed in the 14th century as a fortified entrance into the city of Aachen. It was an important part of the city's defensive walls, serving as a checkpoint for travelers and a stronghold in times of conflict. Today, the Ponttor is open to the public and serves as a museum and exhibition space.
Thank you for joining me on this captivating walking tour of Aachen. I hope you enjoyed the journey as much as I did, and if you did, don't forget to like and subscribe to my channel for more exciting travel adventures.
Recorded - on Sunday 13 August 2023
Weather/Temperature - mostly sunny 24°C/75,2°F
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