The Essen cathedral treasury is considered the most important legacy of the Essen nunnery. Two of its most important works of art are still kept in the cathedral today. The Golden Madonna, the oldest fully sculptured portrait of Mary in the world, is the most important work of art in the Ruhr region. The figure of Mary, which dates from around 980 AD, is still a highly venerated image of grace today and stands in the left aisle of Essen Cathedral. The seven-branched candelabrum also still has its place in the cathedral. It is the oldest surviving seven-branched candelabrum in Christendom and was cast in bronze around the year 1000. Another work of art is enthroned above the portal of today's bishop's house on Burgplatz: For almost 70 years, the golden angel by the artist Ewald Mataré has been standing there, which is why the people of Essen affectionately call it the "Mataré Angel".

The Haniel spoil tip in Oberhausen and Bottrop is an impressive structure on a former mining tip. With a height of around 90 meters, it is a symbol of the former coal mining industry in the region. From the platform, you can enjoy a fascinating panoramic view. On a clear day, you can see as far as the gasometer in Oberhausen, the television tower in Dortmund and even Cologne Cathedral. This is the ideal place to watch a beautiful sunset over the Ruhr region. If you catch the right evening, you can see the sunset on one side and the moon rising on the other!

This creative place in the heart of the Ruhr metropolis offers space for the realization of ideas and dreams. Here, everyone finds a niche to develop their creativity. Whether painting, music, photography, dance or theater - everything is possible. On the seven floors, different artists can be observed at work and you get an insight into their creative processes. Between the floors, cozy lounge areas and small cafés invite visitors to linger. Culinary visitors also get their money's worth, whether hearty dishes or sweet treats - every palate is spoiled here. A visit to the Unperfekthaus Essen is an experience for all those seeking inspiration and exchange.

Between the Gothic towers of the Basilica of St. Servatius and St. John's Church, surrounded by historic buildings, a lively hustle and bustle unfolds. At this square you will find an abundance of cafes and restaurants where you can watch the hustle and bustle over a coffee. Particularly recommended is the café In Den Ouden Vogelstryus, an institution since 1730, known for its cozy atmosphere.

Walk through the Helpoort, the oldest city portal in the Netherlands, and discover a world where prisoners once awaited their fate. In the towers, now a museum, Maastricht's fortress stories come to life. Climb the towers for stunning views over the city and delve into the captivating past of medieval defensive architecture.

A cozy place for everyone to meet, chat, enjoy, work, relax, be entertained, as a quick coffee and tea station for those in a hurry and, of course, to read. Café LIVRES sees itself as a lively meeting place in one of the city's most beautiful and exciting districts, the Moltkeviertel. By the way, you can borrow books here and bring them back when you're finished.

On June 1, 2024, it's that time of year again: the legendary Extraschicht (or Night of Industrial Culture) brings the industrial heritage cities of the region together for one night and allows visitors a spectrum of cultural experiences. At more than 50 venues in 22 different cities in the Ruhr area, about 500 different events take place in a single night. The special thing about it is that you don't have to choose a venue, but can easily travel back and forth between the various program items with a mobility concept specially designed for the extra shift.

Tonhalle Düsseldorf is the hotspot for concert lovers who have a passion for classical music. The beautiful building is a masterpiece of architecture and provides a stunning backdrop for concerts and events. The outstanding acoustics transform every concert into a magical experience. With impressive seating, a large stage and an outstanding orchestra, Tonhalle Düsseldorf is the ideal venue for a concert you won't soon forget. With its diverse program, Tonhalle Düsseldorf offers an unforgettable experience for all music lovers in the city. Here everyone can experience and enjoy the world of classical concert, musicality and vocal art.

A fascinating journey into the world of the famous poet awaits you at the Goethe Museum. His life and works come to life here. The exhibitions are carefully curated and offer insights into Goethe's literary legacy and his time. You can admire authentic artifacts and immerse yourself in the mind of this great artist. The museum is family-friendly and offers scavenger hunts and even digital rallies for little museum detectives (scavenger hunts and even digital rallies). By the way: admission is free with the DüsseldorfCard.

Wander through the Sphinx Passage, a 120-meter-long covered tile that includes nearly 30,000 tiles and depicts Maastricht's rich ceramic history. In this historical context, discover modern art studios, galleries, and workshops that reflect the creative soul of the city. On the roof of the Eiffel Building, the BOLD Rooftop Bar offers breathtaking views of the city.

Immerse yourself in the world of artisanal baking, where freshly ground flour from the oldest working watermill in the country is made into delicious pastries. Try the famous Limburgse vlaai, a local cake that is considered the best in town in this bakery. A visit combines historical heritage with culinary delights.

Immerse yourself in centuries-old thermal baths, surrounded by stunning architecture made of marble and mosaics. Here you will find a unique combination of wellness and history while relaxing in geothermally heated pools, supported by modern amenities such as massages and spa treatments. The healing power of the water and the sumptuous surroundings offer an unparalleled experience of relaxation.

Explore the hidden world underground, where centuries-old limestone caves and secret tunnels tell of past sieges and hidden people. Wander through a maze of historic passageways, discover ancient fossils, and experience the silence away from the modern world in the sprawling underground networks that once protected works of art and townspeople during the war.

While strolling through winding alleys, you will discover Muchachas, a treasure chest full of extraordinary pieces of decoration and furniture. Each piece tells its own story, ready to start a new chapter in your home. From handcrafted accessories to one-of-a-kind furniture, you'll find everything you need to fill your living space with personality.

The impressive moated castle of Raesfeld, dating from the 14th to 17th centuries, is located in the parkland of Westmünsterland. At 52.5 meters, the castle tower is the tallest in Westphalia. The Sterndeuterturm tower and baroque chapel complete the imposing castle complex. The adjoining zoo at Raesfeld Castle invites you to take long walks in the countryside.

The Kunstpalast im Ehrenhof is an architectural ensemble that was built in 1925. This unique location houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints and photographs. The exhibits are of great artistic diversity and offer an exciting experience for art lovers of all ages. The Museum Kunstpalast also invites families to explore the exhibition together and get creative in the museum studio.

Schwebe im gläsernen Aufzug zur Spitze des Gasometers und genieße den unvergleichlichen Blick über das Ruhrgebiet. Im Inneren faszinieren monumentale Ausstellungen, die Kunst, Wissenschaft und Natur spektakulär inszenieren. Die gewaltige Kuppel verstärkt jedes Echo – ein Ort, der Geschichte, Technik und Magie zu einem einzigartigen Erlebnis vereint.

Housed in an eye-catching building designed by Aldo Rossi, this museum brings together masterful old paintings and avant-garde contemporary art. With works from Luciano Fabro to Sol LeWitt, it offers a journey through art history and creative evolution, enriched by the perspectives of local artists from Maastricht and the surrounding area.

In the midst of impressive industrial architecture, cultural events are regularly offered, ranging from rousing concerts to captivating poetry slams and lively theatrical performances. Each event promises to be an unforgettable experience due to the unique and authentic atmosphere. The stage often comes alive to tell new stories to the art and culture world. Here, every taste will find its fulfilment, immersed in a world enriched by each room's own history.

The Hohenzollern Bridge in Cologne is a place of pilgrimage for romantics in love. Both visitors and Cologne residents immortalize their relationship in the form of love locks on the bridge. As a sign of eternal love and fidelity, they attach their lock to the bridge railing and throw the corresponding key into the Rhine. Today, thousands of individually designed love locks adorn the Rhine bridge. What are you waiting for? Take part in this beautiful tradition and immortalize yourselves here in Cologne!

Housed in an impressive 13th-century Gothic church, you'll find a bookstore that combines history and literature. Between vaulted ceilings and stone columns, 50,000 books are waiting for you to discover. Enjoy a coffee and cake in the on-site café, surrounded by stunning architecture and the gentle whispers of yesteryear.

When eating in the clubhouse of the 1st FC Cologne, you can not only enjoy excellent Rhenish dishes at fair prices, but you can also watch the team training. An absolute highlight for football fans and connoisseurs of good cuisine alike.

Contemporary art in all its diversity awaits you in this underground space. From fascinating installations to impressive paintings, the exhibition offers creative inspiration. The works are regularly updated, so there is always something new to discover. The KIT is also a great place to admire the Rhine panorama. The entrance to the Kunsthaus is a glazed pavilion building - inside is the KIT Café, one of the nicest places to eat along the river. Before and after admiring the works of art, you can enjoy the view of the meadows on the left bank of the Rhine over a coffee or a glass of wine.

On Thursdays and Fridays, "Pure Note" hosts cultural events, including the jazz jam session, literature and "Kino a la Carte" in collaboration with art house cinemas. There is live music every Friday evening. From time to time there are also readings with a panel discussion on various topics. A place has been created here where people can meet and enjoy themselves together. A little tip for students: every Mon & Wed there is a 10% discount for students and schoolchildren on everything except alcoholic drinks and events (valid student ID must be shown).