Overview
Divided into North and South regions by the Main River, Frankfurt has a rich 1200-year history. Like Nuremberg, much of Frankfurt was destroyed during World War II. Unlike Nuremberg, which took pains to reconstruct its old world feel, Frankfurt opted for modernization. Today, this well-rounded city is recognized as Germany's financial hub, as well as a dynamic cultural center with many fine museums, theaters and galleries. Frankfurt is the former home of the renowned printer Johannes Gutenberg and the writer Wolfgang von Goethe, not to mention the world-famous Frankfurter. Top tourist sites include the Städelsches Kunstinstitut (one of Europe's finest collections), Goethehaus (Goethe's childhood home), the Gothic St. Bartholomäus Cathedral (which offers a great view), and Sachsenhausen (Frankfurt's preserved old quarter). Frankfurt also puts on two great international fairs – Spring Fair and Autumn Fair – which date back to the 13th century.
