Where
the rivers Rhine and Düssel join a small fishing and farming
settlement could be found in the 7th and 8th centuries; it was from
such settlement that the city of Düsseldorf grew. The first written
mention of the town of Düsseldorf dates back to the year 1135.
Today
Düsseldorf has 574,000 inhabitants and is one of the Rhineland's
most dynamic cities with cosmopolitan charm, boasting a strong
cultural foundation. The posh city is known for fashion, culture and
arts and is headquarter of a host of multinational corporations. As
the capital of the Federal State of North Rhine-Westphalia
Düsseldorf (together with Cologne and the Ruhr Area) is the economic
center of the densely populated Rhine-Ruhr area.
The
modern city retains a charming hospitality behind its businesslike
façade. This is perfectly reflected in its lively cultural and
culinary offerings. One of the biggest cultural events is the
Carnival (also referred to as the "fifth season") which starts every
year on 11th of November at 11:11a.m. and reaches its climax on
Carnival Monday, featuring a huge parade through the streets of the
city centre.
What to see
Düsseldorf offers the visitor a wealth of memorable sights and
experiences. World-famous museums like “Kunstsammlung
Nordrhein-Westfalen”, more than 20 theatres, the opera, many concert
halls, about a hundred galleries and regular art exhibitions of
international standing make Düsseldorf a major centre of art and
culture.
As in
no other city, the life in Düsseldorf is marked by the Rhine, the
longest and most important river in Germany. The embankment
promenade is worldwide considered as the most beautiful walk along
the Rhine. From the riverfront you see the lights on Düsseldorf’s
television tower (240,50m) which is situated on the bank of the
Rhine displaying the world's largest digital clock.
You
should also take time to visit the historic centre, a large open-air
pedestrian mall with narrow alleys, filled with stores, restaurants
and pubs. While here, sample the local speciality “Alt beer” and hop
on a Rhine boat tour. Have a look at the stylish media harbor with
futuristic buildings designed by world-famous architect Frank O.
Gehry.
If you
like a noble ambiance take a stroll through the lovely park and
buildings of Benrath Castle, one of the greatest baroque castles in
Germany.
