Aalen is a city in Germany, capital of the Ostalbkreis, in the Baden-Württemberg Bundesland. Population as of December 31, 2001: 66,559. Area: 14,649 ha.
Aalen is situated on the Kocher, at the foot of the Swabian Alb, about 50 miles east of Stuttgart, and with direct railway communication with Ulm and Cannstatt. There are several schools and churches, and a statue of the poet Christian Schubart. Aalen was a free imperial city from 1360 to 1802, when it was annexed to Württemberg.
Aalen has seven boroughs: Dewangen, Ebnat, Fachsenfeld, Hofen, Unterkochen, Waldhausen and Wasseralfingen.
There are several micro-breweries. The one in Wasseralfingen is most popular. Their beer is called "Wasseralfinger"
Aalen is a health resort with an old mine (offering curing for asthma illnesses) and hot springs.
Turn of the century information:
In the early 20th century the population was 10,000. Woollen and linen goods are manufactured, and there are ribbon looms and tanneries in the town, and large iron works in the neighbourhood.