GUTEN TAG FRANKFURT

The historical and contemporary German city

- KHURSHEED MISTRY

Frankfurt am Main conjures up images of banks, financial institutions and the stock exchange. The city fuses old-world charm and ultra-modernity to create an unrivalled wealth of history and a rich heritage. Frankfurt is not only a modern city but also the largest financial hub in Continental Europe, home to several businesses, skyscrapers and Europe's thirdlargest airport; all of which are state of art.

HISTORY

The name Frankfurt was derived from the Franconofurd of the Germanic tribe of the Franks and furt or ford is where the river Main was shallow enough to be crossed on foot. By the 19th century, the name Frankfurt had been established as the official spelling. The city's full name Frankfurt am Main means 'Frankfurt on the Main' since Frankfurt is located on an ancient ford on the river Main. Until World War II, Frankfurt's old town was the largest medieval city still intact in Germany. The old town was mostly destroyed by Allied bombing in 1944 and was subsequently rebuilt with multi-storey office buildings and other modern structures. The stock exchange was first established in the city in 1585.

MODERN FRANKFURT

International trade fairs have been held in Frankfurt since 1240, and it is now a leading commercial, financial, and high-technology centre. The city is also the home of the European Union's central bank. annual book, automobile, and computer fairs are popular events, and there are many other fairs held throughout the year. Frankfurt is renowned for manufacturers of automobiles, machinery, chemical and pharmaceutical products, and printing materials. No visit is complete without a stop at the Kleinmarkthalle for an array of fresh produce, groceries, meats, flowers, wines and much more! For memorable immersive experiences, visitors can take a 3-hour gin-tasting tour, tour a winery or enjoy a sharing plate food tour; the choices are plenty.