The recently redeveloped south-east tower of the citadel now houses the Via Belgica information centre titled “Römer – Renaissance – Romantik”. The exhibition makes it clear just how much the Roman road influenced the growth of Jülich – it had an effect on the identity and culture (Roman), on the townscape (Renaissance) and the landscape (Romanticism). Museum Zitadelle exhibits treasures from its collections for each of the three epochs. Interactive media installations take visitors on a journey through space and time. By means of a preserved cross-section – from the Roman paving to the asphalt surface laid in the 20^th century –, visitors can see the road’s 2000-year history right in front of their eyes.

The Jülich citadel is one of the best preserved fortresses of the early modern period and an outstanding tourist attraction. Its origins date back to 1548 and the jewel of the complex is the east façade of the former ducal palace in the High Renaissance style. The palace with its exhibitions illuminating the history of the fortifications, the new Via Belgica “Römer – Renaissance – Romantik” section and the elaborately restored fortress with its ramparts and casemates are all well worth a visit.