Aachen benefits from its location close to the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands. This special neighborhood is an important location factor. Through a variety of initiatives and projects, we are committed to ensuring that citizens, companies and scientific institutions in Aachen can make the most of these advantages.
Aachen has been a"Europaaktive Kommune" (active European municipality) recognized by the NRW state government since 2014.
Aachen: The heart of Europe in the border triangle
Aachen was once the center of the Carolingian Empire and the coronation site of German kings and today embodies living European integration. Charlemagne gave his name to the renowned International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen. As a border city to Belgium and the Netherlands, Aachen is predestined to play a pioneering role in cross-border cooperation.
Active European work
Aachen uses its unique geographical location for a variety of European initiatives: These range from information on EU topics in the EUROPE DIRECT Information Center to the cross-border network of the AG Charlemagne border region and cooperation at Euregional and European level in Interreg projects.
Through these activities, Aachen is transforming its historical significance into a modern, dynamic role as a bridge builder in the heart of Europe.
EUROPE DIRECT Information Center
As part of the European Commission's information network, EUROPE DIRECT provides citizens and schools with free advice, EU information material and information about the European Union. The center, based in the Grashaus am Fischmarkt, also organizes many European events and is responsible for the Aachen, Düren, Heinsberg and Euskirchen regions. More information can be found on the Europe Direct website.