Dusseldorf Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Dusseldorf

The area at the confluence of the Rhine and Dussel rivers was on the outskirts of the Roman Empire and settled by Germanic fishing tribes. It is from these small beginnings that the town takes its name. "Dorf" translates to "village" in English. The city of Dusseldorf has since grown far larger than that original eighth-century fishing village.

Dusseldorf was first elevated to a town in 1186 by Count Adolf VIII of Berg. In those early days, the town struggled with its neighbors, including Cologne. These cities were commercial rivals on the river, but today, the only rivalry that exists is in sports.

1288 saw the famous Battle of Worringen, waged between John of Brabant and the Archbishop Siegfried II of Cologne. The battle shuffled cities and alliances in the region. As a result, Cologne became a free independent city, and Dusseldorf was raised to city status. Today, the City Founding Monument is a testament to those days and that fateful history.

The city became the regional capital in 1380. Market Square had been built on the Rhine, and city walls had been added by that time. This period of growth can be toured today--starting from Castle Square on the river, the site of the original town. Don't miss St. Lambertus Church, which was begun in 1288--the same year the city was founded.

One of the city's most famous residents is Johann Wilhelm II, immortalized by a monument in town. Wilhelm founded the art gallery, originally housed in the city castle. Unfortunately, the castle was destroyed by fire in 1872, but you can still see the five-level Castle Tower.

During World War II, Dusseldorf was bombed by the Allied Forces, particularly during the British Royal Air Force's bombing campaigns of 1943. Since the war, the city has been the capital of the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Today, Dusseldorf is a bustling city with notes of history and exciting culture. Enjoy the canal views as you stroll the shops along King's Alley, walk along the Rhine on the Rhine Embankment Promenade, or explore the old town along Bolke Street. No matter where you start, you're sure to love Dusseldorf. So come to meet the city on our introductory walking tour.