Centre Charlemagne, Aachen

Located beside the Town Hall and overlooking Katschhof Square, Centre Charlemagne is a modern glass building that stands out among the older buildings around it. It is Aachen’s city museum and presents the city’s history in a clear timeline. The permanent exhibition is divided into six sections, covering the period from early settlements to the present day.

The exhibition moves from the first settlements to the time of Charlemagne, explaining why he chose Aachen in the late 8th century and how this increased the city’s importance. It then covers the Middle Ages, when Aachen became the main coronation city of the Holy Roman Empire. Between 936 and 1531, German kings were crowned here, including Charles V in 1520, showing the lasting role of Charlemagne’s legacy.

Beyond history, the museum is also known for its modern architecture. The building was originally constructed between 1957 and 1960 as an administrative office and later renovated in 2009 with a large glass façade. Inside, the foyer features a triangular design linked to Aachen’s street layout, with clean lines and subtle lighting that give the space a contemporary feel.