Thirty German kings were crowned in Aachen Cathedral. When you step inside and look at the octagonal dome and the mosaics, that number is not surprising. And half an hour from this border city, a very different scene awaits: Monschau.
What can you see in Aachen Cathedral?
The cathedral was built by Charlemagne in the 8th century and is the first German monument on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It welcomes you with a unique mix of Gothic and Carolingian architecture. Look for the octagonal dome and the mosaics. Aachen is also famous for its thermal springs, and it lies one step from Belgium and the Netherlands, in North Rhine-Westphalia.
What is there in Monschau?
If your road takes you to Aachen, take a 30-minute side trip to Monschau. This town near the Belgian border is famous for its fairytale atmosphere, and with half-timbered houses, stone streets and mountain air it feels like a medieval postcard. The pretty town stretches along the Rur River and keeps its historic character. What impressed us most:
- Half-timbered houses and stone streets
- Handmade chocolates
- A cloth museum
- The view of the castle on the hill
Why do the two places complement each other?
In Aachen history is grand: a cathedral built by Charlemagne and crowned kings. In Monschau history is small-scale: houses along the river, stone streets and a hilltop castle. Together they show two faces of Germany. Educated Moto Riders offers trips for those who would rather see border regions with a group.
Read the full story in Turkish with photos and videos: Aachen ve Monschau.