The history of Dusseldorf started as a humble farming and fishing settlement of the Germanic tribes, that during the Roman Empire expansion were clinging to a marshy land on the banks of the Dussel, near the place where it flows into the Rhine. Mention of the city of Dusseldorf is made only much later in 1135. But, with the coming centuries, the city grew fortified and was a good outpost on the Rhine, starting its transformation to the place it is today.
Present day Dusseldorf living proof of steadiness in development. Despite the fight for power that turned the place into a battle field several times, Dusseldorf cannot complain too much about turmoiled times, since it had a smooth, ascending evolution, particularly following the period of heavy industrialization. All these be said, we’re ready to start on a small virtual tour of the city’s touristic sights. One thing is for sure, tourists are so welcome and at ease here, that they feel like home.
The best place to start a visit in Dusseldorf is at Konigsallee (The King’s Avenue), a landmark of the city and one of the most luxurious and sophisticated boulevards in the whole world. What makes Konigsallee so unique is the water stretching down the centre, on the place where once stood the fortification walls. And you will definitely feel royal while walking down this masterpiece of old and modern architecture design.
Then, there is the old city, or the Altstadt, where dynamism and tranquility surprisingly coexist. The narrow lanes dominated by old churches, also know the merriment of ancient pubs and breweries. The Altstadt is the real place to discover the many faces of Dusseldorf, since variety won’t allow you to feel tired or bored. With Dusseldorf, you’re not simply visiting churches and museums, you’re actually feeling history.
One absolutely unique sight we must include in our tour is the Zeitfeld or Dusseldorf’s Field of Clocks. Situated in Auf’m Hennekamp, the work of Klaus Rinke, the Zeitfeld is a true expression of modern art, reflecting our society. It consists of twenty three clocks arranged around a 24th one that seems like the mother of all the others. This is the one that gives the main impulses, suggesting our daily routine and subjective time according to personal perception.
Those of you who have always wanted to visit a Buddhist temple, don’t have to go to Asia to see one. The only Buddhist Temple in Europe is very much within reach as part of Dusseldorf’s Japanese community. As the city with the largest number of Japanese inhabitants, it’s no wonder that Dusseldorf takes pride in the beautiful Japanese garden with traditional tea house. It is a very enriching experience to see how East and West communicate and learn about each other.
If you feel the need for a walk away from the noise of the city, you can always take refuge on the banks of the Rhine on the new promenade, that replaced one large highway. The people of Dusseldorf wanted to give the city back to the Rhine, so they moved the barrier of the highway underground, in an immense financial and technological effort. But, you, as a tourist can now see and appreciate such an effort.
The promenade runs from the Altstadt to the Houses of the North Rhine Westphalian Parliament. There are hundreds of trees, and beautiful lanes and great spots to see the sun setting over the river. Plus you can always stop and enjoy some of the small restaurants in the area serving delicious dishes of traditional Rhine food, and have a glass of the local red wine. Cheers!