Growing up in Indianapolis, it might just seem like it is another Midwestern city without interesting or glamorous attractions that would draw people in. But in other parts of the world, Indianapolis is considered a interesting place. The food, culture and commerce in Indianapolis is so interesting that eight other cities around the world have agreed to call Indianapolis their “sister city.”

“Sister cities” are formed when two cities from different areas agree to share their customs, cultures and commerce with one another. By forming these relationships, the cities hope to improve trade and the economic status of all the areas involved. Sister cities also hope to share information and insights between residents about the different cultures. By sharing information between cities about these cultures we can enrich our lives and help create a stronger connection with people around the world.

Indianapolis sister cities include Cologne, Germany; Monza, Italy; Taipei, Taiwan; Piran, Slovenia; Campinas, Brazil; Northamptonshire County, United Kingdom. In addition to these, Indianapolis is also recognized as a “friendship city” with Hyderabad, India and Hangzhou, China. These “friendship cities” are similar to sister cities.

While Indianapolis shares culture and information with all these cities, the longest sister city relationships have been with Taipei and Cologne.

The relationship with Taipei, which is 7,611 miles away from Indianapolis, began in 1978 and the relationship with Cologne, which is 4,277 miles away, began in 1988.

Taipei is the capital of Taiwan and is Asia’s second richest city. It is also home to the world’s third-tallest building and is well known for its great museums.

Cologne is located in northwestern Germany and is well known for a number of things. It was one of the earliest Roman settlements in Europe and is home to one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in all of Europe. It is also the birthplace of “cologne”, or a type of perfume that is so common today.

To learn even more interesting facts or even experience some of the interesting cultures of Indianapolis’ sister cities, Indies Sister Cities Fest will be held Sept. 19 downtown on Georgia Street from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free and there will be booths, food, music and more.