Aachen ABC

Aachen in Numbers

Aachen has around 250,000 inhabitants, of whom more than 60,000 are students, meaning roughly every fourth resident is a student. The city covers an area of approximately 160 square kilometres. The relatively high proportion of men is largely due to the technically oriented RWTH Aachen University and Aachen University of Applied Sciences.

B

Bahkauv (Legend)

Aachen is home to many legends and myths that can still be found in statues, sculptures and museums. The Bahkauv ("Bachkalb") is one of the most famous and its statue stands at the Büchel. Long ago, a spring known as the Kolbert was located there, where the Bahkauv was said to live. According to legend, it wandered the streets at night, jumping onto the shoulders of drunken men and terrifying them with its claws and sharp teeth. Only upon reaching their front door could they free themselves from the creature, making their condition obvious to the neighbours. Other versions of the story claim that it was not a monster at all, but the city's gatekeeper disguised as the Bahkauv to rob drunkards.

Bend (Öcher Bend)

Twice a year, in spring and summer, Aachen hosts the Öcher Bend fair on the Bendplatz. Similar to Luxembourg's Schueberfouer, it features rides, food stalls and entertainment. The name comes from the Aachen dialect and means the great meadow of Aachen. The first Bend took place in 1413, although its location changed frequently until the present site was established in 1927.

D

Aachen Cathedral

Aachen Cathedral is the city's most famous landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built around the year 800 under the direction of Charlemagne, it symbolises the connection between the earthly and the divine. From 936 to 1531, it served as the coronation church for almost all German kings of the Holy Roman Empire. Its impressive architecture includes magnificent columns, bronze railings and colourful stained-glass windows.

F

FH Aachen

FH Aachen, the University of Applied Sciences, has around 14,000 students and 250 professors. Located in the southern part of Aachen's ring road, it was founded in 1971 and is now one of Germany's largest universities of applied sciences.

H

Hotel Europa

Despite its name, Hotel Europa is not a hotel but a café and club with a 1960s and 1970s atmosphere. Located on Südstraße, it is open from Wednesday to Saturday evenings. Visitors can even enjoy Polish beer such as Tyskie.

J

St. James' Church

At 87 metres, the tower of St. James' Church is the tallest in Aachen. The church traces its origins back to Charlemagne and is considered the first church dedicated to St. James in Germany. Twice a year, visitors can climb the tower and enjoy a magnificent view over the city.

L

Lousberg

Lousberg is Aachen's highest hill and offers spectacular views over the city. It is a popular place for walking, cycling, barbecuing and relaxing. The former water tower now houses the Drehturm Aachen, a revolving café and restaurant.

N

Nox

Lounge atmosphere or nightclub? Nox combines both. Different floors offer themed parties and music ranging from R&B and techno to Latin music.

P

Puppet Fountain

The Puppet Fountain in Aachen's old town tells the story of the city. Its movable figures represent typical Aachen characters such as a bishop, professor, horse, clown and fashion doll.

Pont Gate

Pont Gate is one of the few surviving gates of Aachen's medieval city walls. Built in the early fourteenth century, it is now used by youth and scout organisations. Its name derives from the Pont district.

Pont Street

Pont Street is Aachen's most famous student street. It offers numerous cafés, bars, restaurants and clubs. Whether for a quiet drink or a lively night out, there is always something happening.

Printen

Aachen Printen are the city's famous gingerbread speciality. Available with nuts, chocolate, almonds or icing, they come in many varieties. Millions are produced every year and they are especially popular as souvenirs.

R

Aachen Town Hall

On the market square lies the heart of Aachen, the Town Hall. It was built in 1330 on the ruins of a baroque palace and has since been repeatedly rebuilt, restored, and partially reconstructed after World War II. Today, the International Charlemagne Prize is awarded there every year.

RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen University is the largest technical university in Germany with over 44,000 students. The university does not have a single campus; its buildings and institutes are spread across the entire city of Aachen.

T

Tivoli Stadium

The Tivoli is Aachen’s football stadium with a capacity of 32,960 seats. It is mainly home to Alemannia Aachen, but also hosts concerts and public viewing events.

Theatre / Theatre Square

The Aachen Theatre opened in 1825 as a cultural venue for drama and music. It has two stages: a small one with 168 seats and a large hall with 730 seats. It is located on Kapuzinergraben next to Cineplex and the Old Posthof.

W

Christmas Market

Every year during the pre-Christmas season, the small streets around the cathedral and town hall turn into a festive Christmas paradise. The Aachen Christmas Market is considered one of the most beautiful in Germany due to its special atmosphere and attracts many tourists every year. Whether Printen, nuts, chocolate or mulled wine with or without alcohol, everything can be found here.

Factory Outlet: Lindt & Sprüngli, Bahlsen, Lambertz

Who doesn't know Swiss chocolate from Lindt? Aachen is home to several factories and corresponding factory outlets. From simple chocolate bars to pralines and creative gift ideas, many products are available at attractive prices. Of course, you can also find traditional Aachen Printen, especially from Lambertz.