Straelen, Border municipality in Kleve district, Germany
Straelen is a city in Kleve district in North Rhine-Westphalia near the Dutch border. It sits in a flat landscape with several districts and a mixed character of residential, commercial, and agricultural areas.
First documented in 1063 as Strala, the settlement developed under the County of Guelders and later the Spanish Netherlands. Its border location shaped its role as a transition zone between different political powers over the centuries.
The European Translator Kollegium in Straelen hosts a major library supporting translation work across multiple languages and cultures. Visitors can observe how this institution connects literary traditions and enables communication between nations through translation.
The city is easily reached from Kleve and surrounding areas and serves as a starting point for trips to the nearby Dutch region. Keep in mind that amenities are spread across several districts, so having transportation helps when exploring the wider area.
The city hosts Germany's largest flower auction, where growers and traders offer blooms and plants daily. This trading center connects regional horticultural businesses with international buyers and serves as a major hub for the European flower trade.
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