Aachen Maps

Aachen is a city in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, located near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands. With a population of approximately 262,000 residents, it serves as an important cultural and economic center in the region. The city is situated in the westernmost part of Germany and has historically been significant due to its strategic location at the convergence of three countries.

Aachen gained prominence during the reign of Charlemagne, who made it the center of his empire in the late 8th century. The Aachen Cathedral, constructed under Charlemagne's direction around 796 AD, became the coronation site for German kings and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral's Palatine Chapel represents one of the finest examples of Carolingian architecture in Europe.

The city is home to RWTH Aachen University, one of Germany's leading technical universities, which contributes significantly to the local economy and research community. Aachen has been known for its thermal springs since Roman times, with the Carolus Thermen spa complex attracting visitors seeking therapeutic treatments.

Other notable landmarks include the Aachen City Hall, built in the 14th century on the foundations of Charlemagne's palace, and the Elisenbrunnen, a neoclassical pavilion housing sulfurous thermal springs. The city hosts an annual Christmas market and the CHIO Aachen equestrian competition, one of the world's most prestigious horse shows.