There are some places that feel ‘wow’ once visited though not so popular. This can happen with Hilden, the fourth largest city in the District of Mettmann in Germany. It is a small but beautiful destination that attracts tourists. There is so much to do here and it offers so many places you can explore for an amazing experience. Hilden has no villages or suburban districts but a compact urbanized city center and borders some woods. Here are some of the most important facts you should know about this city.

History

The city was already named in the 11th century in written records. A church was set up in the middle of the early settlement in the 13th century which became a Protestant during the reformation and another church was built for the Catholics. The memorial contains the list of soldiers who died in the world wars. Refugees from East Germany took shelter in Hilden after the war doubling its population. After the 1960s, a large number of immigrant workers have been employed in different industries in the city. The economical expansion in the later decades led to the further growth of Hilden.

Economics

Before the 60s, Hilden had a traditional tram connecting the city in three directions with stations. This tram was one of those that operated on a meter-gauge track and was a tourist attraction. Over time, trams were replaced by buses. The station has local trains going in the three directions stopping at newly built stations. The city can also be accessed by nearby freeways. The main street in Hilden was converted into a pedestrian zone.

Businesses

The city once hosted a number of textile factories, metallurgic and pharmaceutical companies and paint enterprises. Many of them were closed after the crisis of the 80s. Today, Hilden harbors flourishing companies in the sectors of logistics and technology and many other businesses. The leading businesses in Hilden include the headquarters of Qiagen and 3M for Germany.

Attractions

Those who visit Germany would be thrilled to know that there is so much to do in Hilden. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the city.

Coco Loco – It is a nice bar where you can enjoy some of the finest drinks in great weather. They also offer cocktails, relaxing music and service to enjoy a small party or gathering.

Hildorado – This is a fun and exciting place to visit with family. The water park has a water slide, indoor swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool and lots of activities to let you enjoy few hours of fun.

Wilhelm Fabry Museum – This museum in Hilden offers exciting exhibits and lectures that help tourists learn more about them. It has a grain distillery with the steam engine and art exhibitions.

City Library – Book lovers would love visiting this library that has a huge selection with something for everybody. It offers a quiet atmosphere to sit and read.

Schools

The city has eight municipal elementary schools which are all Catholic and there are a few secondary schools as well. All the city schools are day schools but follow different concepts. Independent organizations offer free Christian elementary education.

Hilden Brewery

A family-run brewery located in the village of Hilden, it is one of the last active working linen mills in the area it is famous for. Visitors can explore the magic of brewing and learn about the historic craft from master brewers. One can also indulge in the process of converting malt into one of the finest drinks ever known. Visitors can also taste the variety of flavors of Hilden’s finest beers. You can choose one of the brewery tours and indulge in special events run from Tuesday to Saturday. You can also enjoy a live Irish music session every Wednesday.

Weed Legalization

Though the debate about the legalization of cannabis continues throughout Germany, there is no proposal that asks for the complete legalization of marijuana federally. Reports suggest that cannabis will soon be legalized for medicinal as well as recreational use in Hilden. According to the law of 2017, medical cannabis can be prescribed to seriously ill people suffering from chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, serious nausea or appetite loss from chemotherapy and others. The Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices regulates the cultivation, production and sale of medical cannabis at dispensaries. Pharmacies are permitted to sell the drug in the form of oil, extract or dried bud.