10 reasons to fall in love with North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany

2023-11-23 08:59:00, Blog CNA

The state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) is steeped in history and contains a number of architectural masterpieces, both historic and modern. This land also offers a number of traditions such as carnivals or opportunities for outdoor activities.

Düsseldorf, which is also the capital of this country, stands out with its avant-garde architecture. For centuries Düsseldorf and its neighbor Cologne have been "friendly rivals". When it comes to business, art or even tradition, the West German cities tend to outdo each other.

10 reasons to fall in love with North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany

In terms of modern architecture, Düsseldorf compared to Cologne has many modern buildings such as the Rhine Tower, the Gehry buildings (in the center) and the Media Port.

Cologne Cathedral

The city's most famous landmark, Cologne Cathedral is known throughout the world. Standing almost 160 meters high, it dominates the skyline. The foundations were laid in 1248, but the cathedral was not completed until the 19th century.

Inside, the Shrine of the Three Kings, a gold-worked masterpiece said to contain the remains of the Three Wise Men, is well worth a visit.

Carnivals in the Rhineland region

Every year, carnivals take over the cities along the Rhine on the eve of "Ash Wednesday (the burning of the masks)". Millions of people dress up in colorful costumes and party in the streets and bars.

10 reasons to fall in love with North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany

Things get especially beautiful in the city of Cologne, which hosts Germany's largest Rose Monday parade: Around 12,000 carnival revelers parade through the streets, throwing sweets to attendees.

Former government area in Bonn

10 reasons to fall in love with North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany

Another special city in the western German region is Bonn. It enjoyed its heyday as the capital of West Germany from the post-war period until reunification in 1990. Some of the old government buildings are now open to the public for visits, while others have retained their function as ministerial centers.

Hiking in the Eifel Mountains

NRW doesn't just attract city buffs, it's also a paradise for nature lovers. With its varied landscapes, the Eifel range is the first choice for many cycling and hiking enthusiasts.

10 reasons to fall in love with North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany

The national park boasts the protection of three areas: water, wildlife and forests. More than 7,800 animal and plant species have been identified, of which a quarter are listed as endangered.

Cathedral in Aachen

In 1978, Aachen Cathedral became the first German building to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By order of Charlemagne, the foundations of the cathedral were laid in 796.

10 reasons to fall in love with North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany

Aachen Cathedral

The treasury of Aachen Cathedral houses the famous 14th-century bust of Charles. The leader himself is buried in the church.

Cycling in Münster

When it comes to cycling, Munster leads the way. The city of 300,000 inhabitants, apparently home to 400,000 bicycles, is synonymous with cycling, as seen in this photo of the Prinzipalmarkt square. The promenade ring, which encircles the city, is restricted to pedestrians and cyclists. With more than 55,000 students, Münster is also a popular university town.

10 reasons to fall in love with North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany

Anacia Corvey

Höxter's Corvey Abbey, once home to Benedictine monks, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most important examples of Carolingian architecture.

10 reasons to fall in love with North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany

The monastery's Princely Library, where the poet Hoffmann von Fallersleben once worked as a librarian, boasts a collection of 75,000 books.

Diving in a former factory and coal mine

The Zollverein Coal Mining Industrial Complex is a magnet for visitors. The site once housed one of the largest coal mines and coke plants in Europe.

10 reasons to fall in love with North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany

Today, this complex, like Aachen Cathedral and Corvey Abbey, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old industrial buildings are now arts and culture centers and the on-site swimming pool attracts huge crowds in the summer.

Football between Rhine and Ruhr

The Ruhr area is also famous for football; supposedly there are more regular players here than anywhere else in Germany. The big teams, like Dortmund and Cologne, are known all over the world. A meeting between two teams is an event that should not be missed!/ DW