Aachen, the heart of the Frankish Kingdom and a famous historical city in Germany

Once the capital of the Frankish Kingdom, Aachen was the undisputed center of Europe. Today, Aachen is just a city on the German border. Despite the passage of time, the glory and splendor of this border town remain. When you visit Aachen, you must visit the city's famous attraction, Aachen Cathedral, also known as the Palatine Chapel. It was officially listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, making it Germany's first World Heritage Site. Built between 790 and 800 AD, the cathedral is of extraordinary significance in both architectural and art history. It is an important example of Carolingian architecture and religious architecture. On February 4, 2014, scientists confirmed that the thousand-year-old remains discovered in Aachen Cathedral in 1988 were those of Charlemagne, the great founder of the Frankish Kingdom, known as the "Father of Europe." For 600 years, this was the coronation church of the German Empire. Aachen Cathedral, the court church of Charlemagne, is not only a place of pilgrimage but also retains its historical appearance from a thousand years ago. Its core building is the Palatine Chapel, the largest domed building north of the Alps at the time. It is an octagonal building with a unique style and luxurious decoration. It successfully combines classical architecture, Byzantine architecture, and Gothic architecture. The Palatine Chapel holds a significant place in European history. The overall structure of Aachen Cathedral is rectangular, with an arched roof. The inspiration for the cathedral came from Eastern-style churches of the Roman Empire, and in the Middle Ages, the Palatine Chapel was adorned with many luxurious decorations. In 1414 and 1884, altars were added on both sides. In 1669, an octagonal building with a dome was added. Photography is no longer allowed inside the cathedral, so to see the grandeur and stunning architecture, you must visit in person and experience it with your own eyes. However, the museum next door houses many precious artifacts and allows photography, making it well worth a visit. Among the exhibits are a partially gilded bust of Charlemagne and the Lothar Cross, made around 1000 AD. This cross is displayed to believers as a sacred object during major religious ceremonies. Additionally, the museum displays a candelabrum gifted by Frederick I, Holy Roman Emperor, and a marble throne of Charlemagne in the corridor. The choir stalls also house Charlemagne's golden reliquary, preserving his relics. There are also many exquisite bronzes, ivories, gold and silver artifacts, and religious artworks by famous artists. The artistic treasures of Aachen Cathedral are considered the most important ecclesiastical art treasures in Northern Europe.