Overview
Siegen is a mid-sized university city of 103,000 people in eastern North Rhine-Westphalia, home to approximately 20,000 students at the University of Siegen and FOM University of Applied Sciences. The city is notable as the birthplace of Peter Paul Rubens and offers two historic castles housing museums, Jesuit churches, and access to hiking in the surrounding Rothaar Mountains.
Architecture · Culture · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
Culture
Siegen is Peter Paul Rubens' birthplace. The Oberes Schloss houses his paintings alongside regional exhibits including mining heritage. The city is sometimes called Krönchenstadt due to the Nikolaikirche's golden coronet.
Drink
Siegerland is known for its clean water and breweries. Krombacher is widely available, but try Erzquell Pils from Niederschelden or craft beers from Irle-Brauerei (est. 1693) at Das Sudwerk on Hauptstraße.
Food
Try local specialties like Riewekooche (potato bread) and Siegerländer Krüstchen (breaded pork chop with fried egg). Regional dishes include Krebelcher doughnuts and Siegerländer Debbekooche savory potato pie.
Safety
Avoid entering the Monte Schlacko slag heap area near Geisweid due to accident history. Otherwise standard urban precautions apply.
Transport
The Rothaar Railway connects Siegen to Bad Berleburg through scenic mountain terrain. Regional trains serve the area. Car is recommended for reaching nearby towns and ski resorts.