This
summer I travelled through the southern part of Germany. I don’t
exaggerate when I say that it is indeed a pretty beautiful part of the country.
I went to Nuremberg in the state of Bavaria, to be more precise I have
to say it is in Middle Franconia. Franconians do not like to be called Bavarians. Everyone I met so far insists
to have nothing to do with Bavarians and will never be a Bavarian and never was
a Bavarian … don’t ask … I reckon this is one of these things, forever remaining a secret to outsiders.
View over Nuremberg |
The sky
is blue and the people are friendly. The castles are as enchanting in
Franconia as they are in the rest of Bavaria. Nuremberg is known as a
city with a very high quality of life, its citizens praise its culture
and also its close proximity to the great outdoors.
6 things to do on a walk in Nuremberg
1. Hospital of the Holy Spirit Nuremberg
This
building sits right on the bank of the river Pegnitz. It was founded in the
medieval period in 1332, and Lepers were kept here.
2. Central Market Nuremberg
This is
the main square of the old town where you find the farmer’s market during the
week. The friendly stallholders offer local delicacies.
3. St Lorenz Church Nuremberg
Construction
of the three-aisled basilica started in 1250, the Gothic choir was
completed in 1477, in 1525 it became a Protestant church. The Lorenz Church
houses the second largest organ facility in Germany.
Where: On
Central Market.
4. Beautiful Fountain Nuremberg
The Gothic
fountain was erected around 1385 and looks like a spire (it is not the
original one anymore). When you are there ask people for the two brass rings
embedded in the fence, find and spin them, they are said to bring good luck.
Where: On Central Market.
5. Walk all the way up to Nuremberg castle
Built by
the Hohenstaufens in the medieval period, it used to be one of the most
important castles of the Holy Roman Empire.
6. Breakfast or lunch in Nuremberg
Stop for a
break at Italian style Il Disperato Winebar and have a glass of wine
or some pastries. Where: Burgstraße 11, 90403 Nürnberg. Hours: Monday to Saturday 10am to 10pm. Sunday 12pm to 10pm.
Chanterelles on Central Market |
Handmade Blueberry jam |
Beautiful Fountain on Central Market |
Touch this ring on the Central Market |
Top tip Nuremberg
I happened to be in Nuremberg several times this year. On my second visit I was so lucky to be there on the weekend of the Meeting of the Bards (Bardentreffen). All over town were bandstands with free for all concerts and stalls selling food and drinks. There were also many street buskers entertaining crowds at every corner. Despite the odd shower it was massive fun and a vibrant atmosphere.
From
Berlin with love