|
Situated in the middle of the vastly productive Rhine-Main region,
Frankfurt, the fifth largest city in Germany, is the financial heart
of Germany and the European Union. The city has gained enormous
economic power – within both Germany and abroad, entirely
due to its position as a key transport hub.
Interestingly this trade hub has resulted in a cosmopolitan, multicultural
flair where 45% of the 2.35 million annual visitors to Frankfurt
are foreign and 27.6% of the 650,000-strong population is non-German,
representing some 169 countries and a variety of religions.
Visitors mostly come for one of the numerous trade fairs, exhibitions,
and congresses. Among the largest on the international circuit are
the International Book Fair (Buchmesse Frankfurt) and ACHEMA (chemical
engineering, environmental protection, and biotechnology).
On the other side, Frankfurt astonishes visitors with its cultural
pedigree. Admirable museums, high-caliber performance groups, and
local festivals entice the discerning visitors.
The city’s major attractions including the modern skyscrapers
of banks and corporations in the central business district are potent
symbols of Frankfurt’s economic strength and create a skyline
that is more North American than European. ‘Bankfurt’
or ‘Mainhatten’ is houses some of the tallest buildings
in Europe, including the 300m (984ft) Commerzbank tower, the tallest
office block in Europe. These modern constructions have replaced
parts of the old city that were destroyed by Allied bombers during
the end of World War II.
With the second busiest airport in Europe (after Heathrow) and
a vital junction on the national road and rail network, the generally
mild and well-balanced city welcomes visitors all along the year.
|
