Wurzburg - Of Celtic origins

The Romantic Road is what inspired us to consider a trip to Wurzburg . The more we researched the city however, the more we realized it warranted a visit all on its own.

Wurzburg goes back to Celtic times around 1000 BC. The fortress refuge on the hill served as sanctuary during times of war for the early Celts. Wurzburg in the northern most city of Bavaria. These people refer to themselves as Franconians and maintain their unique folklore and cultural traditions. The city gained its renown around the 7th century with its first bishop, St. Burchard. In subsequent centuries Prince Bishops, so named because investiture of titles increased their wealth and influence, when they granted favors and allowances to well-to-do nobility. The palace above is an example of one such Prince Bishop's wealth; he built this magnificent Wurzburg Residence. In addition to the splendid architectural features (Balthasar Neumann, architect] it contains what is said to be, one of the largest fresco's ever produced.

A Venetian artist, G.B. Tiepoli left Venice only twice. Once was at the bidding of this wealthy Prince Bishop and he painted a 6400 sq. ft depiction of the four continents known at the time, on this self- supported vaulted ceiling. The entire palace was built from 1720-1744 and represents once of the best examples of Baroque architecture of the time.

We went from church to church. Each one representing a different time period. It was a Saturday so the market in the town square was bustling with people. [Allan hustled me out quickly and without time to spend any money.]

Wurburg is a university town, so it is full of young people, adding to the energy and vitality of this happening place. The university was established in 1585. This building is classic renaissance style and constitutes the theological college and assembly hall. Here was where X-rays were first utilized and it is the home of 13 Nobel Prize winners.

All of Bavaria holds promise for future visits. Nestled away along the Romantic Road are quaint little towns with a flavor and feeling unique to Bavaria and its colorful people. They love their festivals. May through June is packed full of interesting events and exhibits. They all require two and three day time span to fully appreciate. that will have to wait till spring. In the meantime, we will stay closer to Frankfurt.