Regensburg’s History
Regensburg is Germany’s medieval wonder and capital of the Bavarian Oberpfalz. It is located on the northernmost point of Europe’s second longest river, the Danube. Regensburg is described as Italy’s most northerly city. The river settlement dates back to the stone age, housing
many different tribes throughout the centuries, including its ancestors’ civilizations. The area lives and prospers by the easy access of the mighty Danube River. Once a Celtic territory, the Romans seized control of the region around 90 AD. The ruins can still be seen today fused together with a more recent style of architecture.
This is one of the best towns in Bavaria that attracts a wide variety of visitors every year. Resenburg is home to about 20,000 students, attributing a nice, young feel to the city. Interestingly, the place is home to some of the oldest pedestrian streets in all of Germany.
Furthermore, Regensburg is the political, economic and cultural center of Eastern Bavaria. The medieval center of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is symbolic of the cultural status of southern Germany in the Middle Ages.
Old Stone Bridge
Near the center of the city, you will find the famous stone arched bridge, that was built in the 12th century, and continues to stand strong today! The bridge was a crucial access point for the crossing of the Daube River by the Knight of the second and third crusades as they made their
way to the Holy Land. The Stone Bridge or Steinerne Brücke was the sole bridge in Resenburg 800 years, until the construction of Nibelungen Bridge in the 1930s. It is a prime example of medical construction and was used as a model for brides built in the 12th and 13th centuries
across Europe — Dresden’s Agustus Bridge and Prague’s Judith Bridge are a few examples.
Situated next to the Old Stone Bridge, is the ‘Old Sausage Kitchen’, one of Germany oldest restaurants, opening way back in 1135 AD. Initially, this restaurant was built to feed the mason worker who were building the stone bridge at the time, Today, the ‘Old Sausage Kitchen’ serves
about 6000 guests every day! They have quite possibly the best Bavarian sweet mustard in the world and tourists, cyclists, wait patiently in line to satiate their cravings. Germany is famous for its beer, pretzel and wursts or sausages and a trip the country would be incomplete without a delicious meal of bratwurst.
Regensburg Cathedral
With that being said, this city is truly known for its Gothic Cathedral, whose high towers dominate the city. The mighty dome of St. Peter marks the center of the Old Town and the impressive Episcopal Church stands on the site of a Roman building. An equestrian statue of King Louis
guards this magnificent building — indeed it was he who had the sacred building completed. The building was modeled after various French gothic cathedrals around 1250 AD and several master architects took part in its construction. The facade of the cathedral tells its own story — statues,
gargoyle, and stained glass windows depict the religious faith of medieval times. After the eyes have become accustomed to the dark interior, the little light permitted by the lead glass windows adds to their mystery. The external walls contain varied tones and the reason for this is that more
than one type of stone was used for its construction — limestone and sandstone being primary examples. Today, this gothic church is a diocesan museum and it contains a number of sacred objects that date back hundreds of years. This gothic styles cathedral not only represents the
Christian religion throughout the region but its massive size also represents the wealth and prestige of the area.
The Old Town
Although the city is known for its cathedral, Regensburg’s allure lies in the charming cobblestoned streets of its old town. The city has a long, proud and colorful history. Affluent families liked to display their wealth by building enormous types of towers. Competitions often
took place over the years of prosperity. This has led to numerous clocks and bell towers spread across the city, dominating its skyline.
In 1245, Emperor Fredrich II decreed that the city should govern itself, headed by a mayor. Soon after the free, imperial city was born. The ancient town hall is one of the oldest in southern Germany and was built in the 13th century. The city’s wealthy residences featured grand
ballrooms on the first floor of their lavish residences, therefore, the town hall could have nothing less grand. Consequently, the Imperial Hall was built.
Christmas Market
If you’re visiting during the winter season, you’ll have the pleasure of experiencing the city’s charming Christmas markets. With its castle-like towers, in a sea of sparkling Christmas lights and decorations, Regensburg has become widely known for their Christmas spirit and
marketplace. In fact, the Christmas market here has been described by an independent jury as one of the loveliest markets in all of Germany. You can purchase various types of beverages and chocolate sweet from one of many food vendors. A variety of candies and treats can also be
found and enjoyed on the premises of the market. Indulge your taste buds with German style foods such as currywurst alongside a deep fried dish of potatoes. If you’re not used to the cold, warm up by the fires and base in the evergreens and Christmas trees that surround you.
In the 19th century, Regensburg could be described as having been a ‘Sleeping Beauty’ because this city on the Danube lacked industry and therefore the new wealth. The fact is that both history and the Old Town have made Regensburg a World Heritage Site. Miraculously, Regensburg
suffered very little destruction from the allied bombing in World War II. The city is almost perfectly preserved and has been since it became a UNESCO world heritage site. From their historical beginnings to their prosperous times of architectural amazement, the city has something for
everyone. Come and enjoy the lively cobblestone streets of the city, while admiring some religious architecture, you won’t be disappointed!
Regensburg Christmas Market©/stefan_fotos/Flickr