Grashaus: Aachen's Historic Heart

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Explore Aachen's oldest civic building: From town hall to prison, discover centuries of history at the Grashaus, a key stop on the Route Charlemagne.

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The Grashaus, one of Aachen's oldest secular buildings, dates back to 1267. Once a cloth hall, it served as the city's first town hall, a courthouse, and even a prison. Today, it stands as a monument to Aachen's rich history, housing exhibits and the 'European Classroom'.

A brief summary to Grashaus

Fischmarkt 3, Aachen, Aachen-Mitte, 52062, DE
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Local tips

Visit during the weekdays to avoid larger crowds and have a more intimate experience exploring the Grashaus.
Check the official website for information on any special exhibitions, workshops, or events that may be taking place during your visit.
Take some time to read the information boards around the Fischmarkt to gain insights into the building's past and its role in Aachen's history.
Combine your visit to the Grashaus with a tour of other nearby attractions such as the Aachen Cathedral for a comprehensive exploration of the city's historic sites.

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Getting There

Walking

The Grashaus is located at Fischmarkt 3, in Aachen's city center, near the Rathaus (City Hall) and Aachen Cathedral. From the Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom), head towards the Markt square. Once at the Markt, look for Fischmarkt, located just off the square. Walk down Fischmarkt, and you will see the Grashaus.
Public Transport

The Grashaus is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus lines stop near the Grashaus. The closest bus station is Aachen, Bushof, which is a 4-minute walk away. From Bushof, walk along Büchel, turn right onto Kockerellstraße, then turn left onto Fischmarkt. The Grashaus will be on your right. A single bus ride within Aachen costs €2.80.
Parking

If arriving by car, note that Aachen has a low emission zone, and a green sticker is required for entry. There are several car parks in the city center. Unlimited parking is available in car parks for approximately €2.00 per hour or €11.50-13.00 per day. P+R (Park and Ride) options are available on the outskirts of the city, such as P+R Waldfriedhof, P+R Jülicher Strasse, and P+R Tivoli. On Saturdays and shopping Sundays, a special arrangement at P+R Westfrieshof and P+R Tivoli includes parking and public transport to the city center for a flat fee of €5.00 (for up to 5 people).

Discover more about Grashaus

The Grashaus, located at Fischmarkt 3, is a significant historical landmark in Aachen, Germany. Constructed around 1267, it holds the distinction of being one of the city's oldest surviving secular buildings. Originally built as a cloth hall by Aachen's guilds, the Grashaus has served many functions throughout its history, including as an administrative office (1370), the town hall until the new Rathaus was completed, a courthouse, and even a prison during Napoleon Bonaparte's reign. The name “Grashaus” translates to 'Grass House,' but this is misleading. The term 'Gras' refers to an old German word for 'greeting' or 'negotiation', reflecting its initial use as a meeting place for merchants. The building's architecture is primarily brick gothic, with Baroque elements added during renovations. The facade features detailed stone carvings depicting biblical scenes and figures from antiquity. Today, the Grashaus houses an information center for visitors interested in the Route Charlemagne, showcasing Aachen's cultural history. Inside, a permanent exhibition takes visitors on a journey through time, from the Middle Ages to the Napoleonic era. The ground floor displays medieval legal texts and artifacts from archaeological excavations. The upper floors detail the building's evolution, including architectural models. The 'European Classroom' offers educational programs about European heritage for school groups, promoting cross-cultural dialogue. The Grashaus is accessible to everyone with a few restrictions. Guide dogs are allowed.

Explore the best of what Grashaus has to offer

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File:AachenCathedral (Exterior of Aachen Cathedral) und links St. Foillan (St. Foillan, Aachen) (im Vordergrund der Katschhof) 2022 in Aachen.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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