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| SUNDAY • 16 SEPTEMBER 2018 maltatoday 11 CULTURE ENVIRONMENT CULTURE TRAVEL FRANKFURT, Germany's fifth largest city, is known as the 'Gateway to Eu- rope' due to its central location. It is a high-powered finance and business hub, and home to one of the world's largest stock exchanges and the gleaming headquarters of the Eu- ropean Central Bank since 1998. It hosts some of the world's most important trade fairs, attracting thou- sands of business travellers. Yet, it is also a global hub for culture and one can explore it through a historic lense. There's a fascinating mix of archi- tecture, with modern glass high-rises looming over traditional red-brick churches. Frankfurt makes an excel- lent jumping-off point to explore nu- merous charming old towns and cities, mediaeval castles, cathedrals, and an- cient fortifications. The closest forest lies just half an hour away from the centre. On your next trip to Europe, don't just pass through Frankfurt's airport. Instead, take time to discover Germany's fifth largest city and its surrounding areas. Sachsenhausen Across the Main river to the south, lies the former village of Sachsenhaus- en full of character and charm. It is a pleasant walk back into how the build- ing architecture was pre-war. There are several pedestrian-only streets from the middle ages, various historic houses worth a look or photo, narrow streets with cobblestone, and many appealing restaurants serving German food and beer. Most traditional res- taurants in Frankfurt are located here. Heidelberg This is the city that will capture your heart. The main attraction is the red sand stone Heidelberg Castle, perched on the slopes of Mount Königstuhl some 70 metres above the river Neck- ar. A tour of the castle holds all kinds of treasures, from charming court- yards and large statues of emperors and kings, to detailed façades and the world's largest wine barrel sitting in the basement of the castle, which is bigger than most apartments. Togeth- er with the Old Bridge across the river, the castle and its neighbouring build- ings are among the most impressive sights anywhere in Germany. Rothenburg For a trip back in time to the middle ages, visit Rothenburg. Perched high atop the steep banks of the River Tau- ber, this is one of Germany's best-pre- served medieval towns. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the oldest and most historic of the medieval towns along the Romantic Road, Germany's most famous and most beautiful sce- nic route. Nowhere else will you find such a wealth of original buildings dating from the Middle Ages. It is a two hour drive from Frankfurt, situated about halfway in between Frankfurt and Mu- nich. Today Rothenburg ob der Tau- ber is a small, quaint town and a big tourist attraction. Two readers have the chance to win a complimentary return ticket each for travel on any scheduled Air Malta flights (excluding taxes and charges). All you have to do is answer the question below and send in your name, mobile number and email address to: Maltatoday competition, Air Malta plc, Sky Parks, Malta International Airport, Luqa, LQA 4000. The closing date is 28 September 2018 Getting there Air Malta operates seven flights a week to Frankfurt. Go Light fares from Malta to Frankfurt start from EUR39 per way including taxes and charges Question: How often does Air Malta fly to Frankfurt? a) One time a week b) Four times a week c) Seven times a week Mobile Number Name Email TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY Frankfurt and its surrounding areas