Aachen Poster

A view of Aachen, Germany, circa 1900. Aachen, located in western Germany near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, has a history dating back to the Roman era. The city's historical significance is closely tied to the reign of Charlemagne, the Frankish king who chose Aachen as his principal residence in the late 8th century. Charlemagne's decision to make Aachen the centre of his empire marked the city as the capital of the Carolingian Empire, and it became the site of the Palatine Chapel, now part of the Aachen Cathedral. The cathedral, a masterpiece of Carolingian architecture, was completed in 805 AD and later became the coronation site for German kings for several centuries. Aachen continued to be a key political and cultural centre throughout the Middle Ages. The city's prestigious cathedral attracted pilgrims, and its school, the Aachen Palace School, gained renown as a centre of learning. Aachen's prominence diminished during the late mediaeval period, but it experienced a revival in the 14th century with the establishment of the Aachen Münster, a stunning Gothic church. The city also played a role in the later stages of the Holy Roman Empire, hosting important imperial diets and coronation ceremonies. Aachen's rich history is reflected in its well-preserved mediaeval architecture, including the city hall and various churches.