Emden

Emden is a harbor city in East Frisia that sits where the Ems meets the North Sea. Canals run through the town center and connect the inner harbor with larger docks on the outskirts.

The settlement emerged in the early Middle Ages as a trading post at the mouth of the Ems. After the Thirty Years War, the city was developed into an important naval base under Prussian rule.

Local cafés serve East Frisian tea following a fixed ritual where three cups are the minimum expected. Bronze figures in the pedestrian zones honor comedian Otto Waalkes, who was born here.

The town center can be explored on foot or by bicycle since most points of interest lie close together. The harbor area sits further out and is best reached by car or bus.

A World War II bunker in front of the New Church now serves as an art gallery. Houseboats moored along the canal banks house residents year-round.

Location: Lower Saxony

Elevation above the sea: 1 m

Shares border with: Aurich, Leer

Phone: +494921870

Email: stadt@emden.de

Website: https://emden.de

GPS coordinates: 53.36694,7.20611

Latest update: December 12, 2025 20:56