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The Historical Hambach Castle Becomes A European Heritage Site

The European Commission has officially honored The Hambach Castle in Neustadt as a European cultural heritage site, and one which symbolizes ‘the cradle of German democracy’ and European history

March 13th, 2015
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On March 12th, the Hambach Castle was granted a place on the European Cultural Heritage list. The castle attracts tourists from all over the world, and is considered by the international community as a representation of European integration and the ideals and values of the European Union. The official listing will be awarded on April 15th in Brussels. Other sites included on European Heritage list are the Acropolis in Athens and the birthplace of Verdi and Puccini in Italy. 

The Hambach Fest, a national German democratic festival held at the castle in 1832, gave Hambach Castle its historical significance. Almost 30,000 people from all over Germany and other countries including France and Poland gathered for a ‘fair’ to demand freedom, democracy and unity in Europe. All ranks of society attended, from workmen, women and students to members of parliament to rally for liberty, civil and political rights, and popular sovereignty in the European system as it was at the time. Today, the event represents European ideals and the ‘cradle of German democracy’.

According to the European Commission, ‘European heritage sites are milestones in the creation of todays Europe. To walk through one of these sites is to experience European values and civilization in the making’. In terms of tourism for Germany, Heritage sites have a spillover effect for the economy. Tourism is estimated to contribute €415 billion to the EU GDP, according to the European Commission, and 27% of EU travellers indicate that cultural heritage is a key motivation for visiting a travel destination. This honourable listing of the Hambach Castle can only bring further attraction, interest and tourism; whilst promoting the value of national and regional diversity, and intercultural dialogue for Germany.

Today, if you visit the stunning castle, a permanent exhibition remembers the historical events that took place there. There is access to extensive information in various languages on the symbolic value of the castle.

News from Berlin – Berlin Global

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