Author: Barry Pickard
Bamberg is a picturesque town located in the state of Bavaria, in southern Germany. It is situated on the banks of the river Regnitz and is known for its stunning architecture, historic buildings, cobblestone streets and rich history. The town is home to a number of attractions that makes it a popular destination for travellers, especially within the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bamberg has a long and fascinating history that stretches back to the 9th century. The town was founded by the Duke of Bavaria, who chose the site because of its strategic location on the river Regnitz. In the 11th century, Bamberg became an important center of the Holy Roman Empire and was home to a succession of influential bishops.
During this time, the town experienced a period of great prosperity and many of its most notable buildings, including the Bamberg Cathedral, were constructed. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Bamberg became a center of the German Enlightenment and was home to several important intellectuals and scholars.
Despite suffering heavy damage during World War II, Bamberg has managed to retain much of its historic charm and today Bamberg is a vibrant and thriving town that is known for its picturesque streets, charming Bavarian taverns, and rich cultural traditions.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting Bamberg appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the attractions of Bamberg or indeed, a general tour of Bavaria.
5. The Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus)
The Old Town Hall in Bamberg is quite a curiosity: The frescoes that adorn the facades are as amazing as the story behind the building's construction. According to legend the bishop of Bamberg did not grant the citizens any land for the construction of a town hall. This prompted the townsfolk to ram stakes into the river Regnitz to create an artificial island, on which they built the town hall they so badly wanted. The Old Town Hall's frescoes never fail to impress as they lend the facades a three-dimensional quality achieved with trompe d'oeil architecture.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: The Old Town Hall accommodates the prestigious rococo hall and the Ludwig Collection which are worth a visit.
4. The World Heritage Visitor Centre
The World Heritage Visitor Centre provides an overview of the World Heritage site, including information about what it means to be a World Heritage site and what contributes to Bamberg’s significance as a UNESCO site.
The exhibition consists of three parts; one for each historic settlement centre. In a lively way, the exhibition provides information about the City on the Hills with its Domburg (former fortress of the Babenberg dukes), the Island District with its mills and private mansions and the Market Gardeners‘ District with its urban horticulture.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: Walk around the outside of the centre and neighbouring buildings for some interesting views of the river and Old Town Hall.
3. Neue Residenz Bamberg
The New Residence with its splendid rooms and lavish furnishings is an impressive reflection of the prince-bishops' life. The state gallery contains a significant collection of old German and baroque paintings.
Until 1802 the New Residence served as the seat of Bamberg's prince bishops. The more than 40 magnificent rooms are adorned, among others, with stucco ceilings, furniture and rugs from the 17th and 18th centuries. The imperial hall, painted by Melchior Steidl, the elector's rooms and the prince-bishops' apartments are particularly worth seeing.
The "Old German Gallery" and the "Baroque Gallery" contain significant works of art from the Bavarian State art collections.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: Don’t forget to visit The Rose Garden in the inner court of the New Residence since it commands a breath-taking view of Bamberg.
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2. Bamberg Cathedral
Bamberg Cathedral is one of Emperor Heinrich II's legacies. The emperor had the Cathedral constructed in 1002 and it was completed in 1012 after a building period of just ten years. However, this house of worship fell victim to fire, as did its successor. The third construction which contains stylistic elements of the late romanesque and early gothic periods has survived to the present day.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: Highlights of the cathedral include the tomb of the holy imperial couple Kunigunde and Heinrich II., created by Tilmann Riemenschneider, the "Bamberg Horseman" who is shrouded in mystery, the altar by Veit Stoß and the papal tomb of Clemens II.
1. Historical Museum Bamberg
The Historical Museum Bamberg presents a remarkable collection of culture and history from the prehistoric era to the present day. The museum situated in the Old Town Hall, a beautiful medieval building that originates from the 13th century.
There are several exhibits at the Historical Museum Bamberg that showcase the rich history of the city and its people. One exhibit covers the history of Bamberg from the earliest settlements to the present day, while another focuses on the city's role as a center of the Holy Roman Empire. There are also exhibits on the city's art and culture, including its famous brewery tradition.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of artifacts from the early Middle Ages, including jewellery, coins, and ceramics. There are also many paintings and sculptures on display, including works by famous artists such as Lucas Cranach the Elder.
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Conclusion
Overall, Bamberg is a charming and picturesque town that is rich in history and culture. Its stunning architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and beautiful natural surroundings make it a must-visit destination for travellers. Whether you're interested in exploring the town's historic sites, sampling local beers and Bavarian cuisine, or enjoying the great outdoors, Bamberg has something for everyone.
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Comment below and let us know what your favourite attraction in Bamberg was.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting Bamberg appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the attractions of Bamberg or indeed, a general tour of Bavaria.
Join me next time on my adventures when I discover the fascinating city of Ingolstadt, Bavaria. Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries creates one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
These self-guided tours deliver a personalised and exciting holiday experience that takes the effort out of trip planning.
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