Aachen Valley, Austria
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2022-08-16 10:44:13
Aachen Valley, Austria
Based in Akenkirch, this tour offers cross-country ski instruction every morning and a daily loop through the Calvindel Alpine Park Nature Reserve. Some cross-country skiing experience is desirable as participants will learn new techniques using shorter snowboards, sports fitness .
Tours don't start until January to ensure enough snow. Guests who prefer independence will enjoy the flexibility of the program, including a day of Nordic skiing by bus to Innsbruck.
Aachen
The city's royal roots are rooted, and in the Middle Ages, Aachen was famous as the residence of Frankish kings and was a favored stronghold of Charlemagne. Today, this popular historical ruler can be seen everywhere in Aachen, from historical sites such as the Charlemagne statue at Marktplatz, to fascinating period artifacts and displays in the city museum. The city even established a popular tourist route, the Route Charlemagne, which links many of Aachen's important landmarks with the great ruler. From the time of Otto I in AD 936 to Ferdinand I in 1531, Aachen was the place where 32 German kings were crowned.
1. Aachen Cathedral
Sometimes referred to as the Kaiserdom (Kaiserdom) or by its English name, Aix-la-Chapelle, the difference between Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom) is not only one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe, And it is also the oldest such building. Constructed in 1414 by a central octagon built in AD 796 as Charlemagne's Palatine Chapel and Gothic choir, this splendid Roman Catholic cathedral is home to many unique historical artifacts. Highlights include the candlesticks from the Throne of Charlemagne (Frederick I Barbarossa), Charlemagne's marble throne and a golden reliquary containing his remains.
The cathedral is also known for its many unique bronze sculptures, most of which date back to its founding and were cast in a society-built foundry commissioned by Charlemagne. Also of note are the windows in the cloister, considered a fine example of post-war German design. Guided tours are available.
2. Aachen Cathedral Treasury
The Aachen Cathedral Storehouse (Aachener Domschatzkammer), located on the ground floor of the cathedral and connected to its cloister, is one of the richest and most important collections of religious art in Europe during the Middle Ages. Among its many precious relics, noteworthy highlights include numerous sacred religious artifacts and treasures from the Middle Ages, most notably the Chair and the Chart of Bust of Charlemagne, which are Shown every seven years. Other notable exhibits include the Persephone sarcophagus that houses Charlemagne, and a stunningly beautiful bust of silver that is said to contain the king's skull cap. Several tour options in English are available.
3. Aachen Market (Marktplatz)
Aachen Market (Marktplatz)
Aachen Market (Marktplatz) has many famous tourist attractions. One of the highlights is the imposing Old Town Hall (Rathaus), built in 1350 on the foundations of a former Carolingian fortress and with its fine coronation hall frescoes depicting the life of Charlemagne. Other highlights include the Katschhof, which marks the site of the courtyard of the Carolingian palace, and a number of important statues, including one of Charlemagne. On trading days (Tuesdays and Thursdays), it's a great time to visit this bustling public square, when vendors set up stalls selling fresh food and local produce. It's also a great place to simply sit and watch TV on the terraces of many cafés and restaurants, which is especially fun in Aachen at night.
4. Aachen City Hall
town Hall
Aachen Town Hall (Rathaus), directly opposite the city's cathedral, is equally important in terms of architecture and history. Built on the site of Charlemagne's original palace and combined with other older buildings in part of the Marktplatz, including the old Grashaus (parts are still visible), this castle-like building officially became the town's administrative center in the mid-1300s. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Baroque style was further added.
Highlights include a series of statues on the north façade of the German king crowned in Aachen, and the magnificent Coronation Hall with its famous 19th-century frescoes by Riesel. Also on display are replicas of the Imperial Crown Jewels, fine Gothic and Baroque furniture, and many portraits of historical figures, including one of Napoleon's. Guided tours are offered and feature key features such as the conference hall, kitchen and the spectacular Coronation Hall.
5. Ludwig International Art Forum
The Ludwig Forum für Internationale Kunst exhibits many magnificent modern artworks from all over the world. Built in Bauhaus style in 1928, the former umbrella factory, like a train station, became home to a fascinating collection of American Pop Art and Realism in 1970. With an overview of the development of European art since the sixties, the exhibition includes a fine collection of Cuban and contemporary artists, as well as works by local artists. Guided tours are available, as well as fun educational programs and workshops, including activities for children.
6. Antique Museum
The Couven-Museum was built in 1958 in an old house in Hamburg from 1740 to 1840 and has many fine interiors. The collection focuses on decorations and handicrafts once found in upper-middle-class houses. This period includes Rococo, Early Classicism and Napoleonic styles. Highlights include displays of 18th-century silverware, kitchenware and the country's first chocolate-making equipment. There is a well-stocked shop in the hotel, where you can buy cheap English-language guides to learn about the museum's many exhibits and displays. English-speaking guides are available on weekends and can be tailored to your specific interests.
7. Elisenbrunnen and the ancient thermal springs
Allison Brunnen
Aachen has a long tradition of thermal baths - records show that the Romans recognized the health benefits of bathing in their waters, which also influenced Charlemagne's decision to move here. To commemorate this history, the town built the beautiful Elisenbrunnen in 1827, an exquisite Neoclassical building with two drinking fountains and a colonnade. Located on Friedrich-Wilhelmplatz, the building actually includes a series of marble plaques bearing the names of many famous historical figures who have come here to taste its healing water, including Peter the Great of Russia and composer Georg Friedrich Handel. The building is now used for community events and exhibits, and is well worth a visit for its fine dining restaurants. A variety of spa-related resorts and bathing facilities continue the city's tradition of welcoming guests to treatments, including the luxurious Carolus Thermen resort.
8. Charlemagne Center
The Center Charlemagne is located in a newer building in Aachen's Old Town (Altstadt), also known as the Neuestadt Museum Aachen (New City Museum Aachen), since the beginning of human existence in the area , you can get a glimpse of the city's rich history. Given his influence on the city, it's no surprise that he paid great attention to Charlemagne himself and the city's role as a royal coronation site. Featuring state-of-the-art audiovisual displays (with presentations in English), the museum is an ideal starting point for visitors following the Charlemagne Trail. There is also a café and shop on site, and regular educational programmes for children and adults are held throughout the year.
9. Salmond Ludwig Museum
The Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum is a place of particular interest for art lovers and historians. Originally built in 1877 (it took its current name in the 1970s) and housed in an impressive former palace, this large gallery houses a fine collection of medieval sculpture and early Dutch and German art, including Rembrandt Works by Rembrandt van Dyck. There is also a large collection of modern art by German painters, unique glass paintings, works by famous goldsmiths, tapestries, and a great deal of graphic art. Guided tours are available upon request.
10. Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo
From the town center to Corneri Münster on the outskirts of Aachen (only a 20-minute drive) is the Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. Located in the DrimbornerWldchen Reserve, it is a fun outing for young and old. Now home to some 1,700 animals from more than 250 different species, the park opened in 1966 and has been one of the city's premier family attractions ever since. Among the many creatures you will encounter are camels, leopards and tropical birds, as well as a large number of native European species. For kids, there's a fun children's zoo, which offers petting and other hands-on experiences, including pony rides and an adventure playground.
Other relevant attractions in and around Aachen include the Alsdorfer Weiher Zoo (Tierpark Alsdorfer Weiher), a small collection of local creatures set in a large park-like setting that is interesting to explore, and the neighbouring Broichbachtal leisure park is also like this. There are picnic facilities and restaurants (free) nearby.
11. International Newspaper Museum
On the market in Aachen you can also find the Internationales Zeitungsmuseum, which houses more than 200,000 newspapers from all over the world, including many first editions. And don't be fooled by the museum's old exterior. Although it is housed in the 15th-century Haus von Aachen, its state-of-the-art displays and multimedia presentations fascinate not only how newspapers are made and distributed, but also how newspapers shape and process news in newspapers. deep impression. century. In addition, there are exhibitions related to new media such as radio and television, as well as fascinating exhibitions related to the history of reading and writing. The live theatre hosts regular lectures, screenings and educational events, while media-related seminars are often held here as well.
12. Ponttor & Marschiertor: Gates of the Old City
Ponte
Built in the 14th century, Ponto is one of only two remaining city gates (there were originally four) and is certainly worth a visit. Impressively, the castle-like structure was served by soldiers for centuries, with its impressive porticoes and mechanized openings for throwing stones and other projectiles at invaders.
Another ancient city gate, Marschiertor ("March Gate"), is thought to have been completed slightly earlier than Ponttor and was ready to be commissioned around 1300. A far cry from its counterpart, its two towers once housed a guardhouse, weapons storage and a dungeon. While it's impossible to get into these fine old buildings, they're certainly an excellent backdrop for selfies.
Where to Stay in Aachen and Sightseeing
We recommend these centrally located hotels in Aachen, close to popular attractions like the Cathedral and Marktplatz:
Luxury Hotels: A 5-star luxury hotel, the Pullman Aachen Guellhof offers guests classic style in an elegant neoclassical building with park views and a spa with steam room and sauna There is also a heated indoor pool.
Mid-Range Hotels: Melia Aachen's INNSIDE is considered Aachen's top hotel and is a good choice for those looking for quality, centrally located accommodation at mid-range prices. In addition to the cool modern style and black and white decor, the hotel has an excellent rooftop restaurant with city views, plus comfy beds and premium linens. Another good place to stay, the Novotel Aachen City is centrally located, with parking, a fitness room and a children's play area. Also popular is the Art Hotel Aachen Superior, which, in addition to its great location, offers spacious rooms with balconies, a restaurant, a swimming pool and two saunas.
Budget Hotels: Our pick for the best budget hotel in Aachen, the Haus Am Huhnerdieb Hotel is a budget bed and breakfast with comfortable beds close to the city's best attractions. Other popular budget hotels include the Mercure Aachen Europlatz, known for its friendly staff and proximity to famous attractions, including the Ludwig International Art Forum (a 10-minute walk) and the ibis Aachen Marshall Tor Hotel (near city train station) with comfortable, quiet rooms
