Wurzburg - On Germanys Romantic Road

	Search Amazon.com for Travel assistance
Wurzburg is the town that marks the beginning of the Romantic Road. Personally,  I think it is the best introduction to what the route has to offer. Unlike the towns further down  the route, Wurzburg does not immediately assault the senses. Rather, it allows the traveler to get hold of his or her bearings and enjoy the scenery in a laid-back and relaxed pace. Wurzburg’s attractions are centered on the town’s architecture dating back to the Romanesque period. Other periods are also well represented and there are excellent examples of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo architectures. My first stop was the Residenz which was splendid. Despite its colossal size, the structure seemed to appear elegant rather than than just massive and overwhelming. It was built in 1720 and contains more than 300 rooms of Baroque and Rococo designs. You have to see the grand staircase which defines the term "grand" to the letter. While marveling at the sheer size and elegance of the staircase move your gaze to the vaulted ceiling and be even more amazed at the stunning fresco above - which is believed to be largest of its kind. Just walking distance away from The Residenz is the Hofgarten, a perfect spot for a filling lunch and a timely pint of German beer. The Marktplatz or the Marketplace is another favorite of mine. Here you can find the Gothic Church of Marienkapelle which dates back to the 1400s (although its façade was added in 1751). Within the square  is the Library and the Tourist Information Center - but what I found most enchanting was the line of stalls where vendors offer their products of fruits and cheeses as well as a colorful display of vibrant flowers.   After the Maktplatz, I suggest visitors head to the hill where The Marienberg Fortress is located.  It stands sentry over of the entire town and is considered one of Wurzburg’s most famous structures. The oldest part of the fortress dates back to the 11th century while the other portions are closer to the 17th century. The fortress is now converted into a museum and the entire hill is transformed into one big park ideal for picnics. There are a few beer gardens  where you can sip on a local beer while you enjoy the beautiful panorama. You can also view the  Marienberg Fortress from the town and the best place to do so is in the Alte Kranen or The Cranes, located at the end of the promenade along the river. While there, drop by The House of Franken Wines where you can sample and buy from a collection of 100 different Franken wines – I bought a few bottles myself. You can also catch a boat for a cruise at the Alter Kranen and enjoyed the stop-over at the Baroque Gardens in Veitshöchheim. Yes, Wurzburg is also famous for wines. It is in fact a part of Germany’s famous Franken wine growing region. I particularly enjoyed my visits to many wineries and took more than a few sips of their exquisite white wines. Delicious!   The best visit was to the oldest Weinhaus in Wurzburg, the Stachel Courtyard which dates back to 1413.  We enjoyed a banquet of scrumptious food with fantastic wine in the gorgeous Rennaissance courtyard. The ambiance was elegant and compelling, well worth every traveler’s time. After Wurzburge, we’re off to Weikersheim!