Aachen Cathedral is one of the best-known architectural monuments in the western world. As the last resting place of Charlemagne, a coronation site and an important pilgrimage church, its historical significance is immense.

Kings and treasures
An important example of European architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Aachen Cathedral is simply beyond compare. Charlemagne's octagonal Palatinate Chapel forms the core of the cathedral, and until 1531 more than 30 German kings were crowned on the marble throne. The Gothic choir hall, which was added later, is of breathtaking beauty, while the golden shrine of Charlemagne contains the remains of the art-loving king. Aachen Cathedral is also an important European pilgrimage site. The Shrine of the Virgin Mary contains the "Great Aachen Reliquaries", said to be the robe of Mary, the swaddling clothes and loincloth of Jesus, and the decapitation cloth of John the Baptist.

The high-quality collections of Aachen's museums paint a comprehensive picture of the development of art from antiquity via medieval sculpture to the present day. Temporary exhibitions and a varied programme of events provide lively access to modern-day culture.

The Charlemagne Prize, IMC-UNESCO music prize, Aachen Art Prize, the Medaille Charlemagne (for European integration and cultural achievement in the media) and even the "Order against deadly seriousness", awarded each year by the Aachen carnival to someone - often a politician - who has displayed a sense of humour in the performance of their duties - are expressions of the diverse culture in Aachen and are just a few of the prestigious international prizes which are awarded by the city. Culture is a very important part of Aachen life, as is evident by its richly varied cultural scene. Even the casino has art on display. Around 100 well-known works from the 1960s and 70s turn a visit to the gaming tables into an unusual art experience.