Town hall

Before choosing Notre-Dame de Paris, Napoleon I had considered for a time having his Imperial coronation take place in Aachen.
Annualy here is celebrated International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen) which is one of the most prestigious European prizes. It has been awarded once a year since 1950 by the German city of Aachen to people who contributed to the ideals upon which it has been founded. It commemorates Charlemagne, ruler of the Frankish Empire and founder of what became the Holy Roman Empire, who resided and is buried at Aachen. Traditionally the award is given to the recipient on the Ascension holiday in a ceremony in the town hall of Aachen.