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Statue of Charlemagne: Aachen's Enduring Symbol
Aachen's iconic bronze statue of Charlemagne, a symbol of the city's rich history and European unity, located in the heart of the Markt square.
The Statue of Charlemagne, also known as Karlsbrunnen, is a bronze statue erected in 1620 in Aachen's Markt square in front of the Town Hall. It represents Charlemagne and symbolizes the city's historical importance and its role in coronations and civic rights.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Statue de Charlemagne
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Markt 41, Aachen, Aachen-Mitte, 52062, DE
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Getting There
Walking
If you are in the center of Aachen, start at the Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom), a prominent landmark. Exit the cathedral and head west towards the Markt square. You will see a large open square surrounded by beautiful buildings. The Statue de Charlemagne is located at Markt 41, right in the heart of this square.
Public Transport
From Aachen Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), take a bus to the 'Aachen Bushof'. From there, it's a short walk to the Markt. The statue is located in front of the Town Hall. A single bus fare within Aachen is approximately €2.80.
Driving
If driving, navigate to Markt 41, 52062 Aachen. Be aware of the low emission zone; only vehicles with a green sticker are allowed. Several parking garages are available nearby, including the Rathaus car park. Parking rates at the Rathaus car park are €2.50 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of €18. Other parking options include Q-Park car parks in the city center.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photos.
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Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Aachen Cathedral for a deeper understanding of the city's history.
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Check local event calendars for markets or festivals in the Markt area to enhance your visit with local culture.
Discover more about Statue de Charlemagne
The Statue of Charlemagne stands as a prominent and enduring symbol in the heart of Aachen, Germany. This bronze statue, also known as Karlsbrunnen, has graced the Markt square since 1620, serving as a tribute to Charlemagne, the revered medieval emperor.
The statue is part of a monumental fountain featuring a bowl measuring 3.5 meters in diameter and weighing over 6,000 kilograms. The original statue, cast in Dinant, was designed by Peter von Trier and his nephew Frans von Trier. The fountain was later modified in the 1730s by Johann Joseph Couven. The statue has been removed and returned to Aachen several times throughout history, including during the Rhineland Campaign of 1792 when French troops took it to Paris, and during World War II when it was kept in the town hall's basement for protection. The statue that stands on the Karlsbrunnen today is a 1969 copy, while the original has been kept at the Centre Charlemagne museum since 2014.
The statue and fountain not only serve as a visual spectacle but also carry deep historical significance, representing Charlemagne's pivotal role in establishing Aachen as a prominent city with important civic rights. The surrounding Markt square is a vibrant hub, filled with shops and cafes, enhancing the statue's appeal. Nearby attractions include the Aachen Cathedral, adding to the rich historical context.
A brief summary to Statue de Charlemagne
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