Iphofen - Area sights

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Rothenburg Rathaus phofen is surrounded by some of the best sightseeing country in Europe. Some, like Rothenburg ob der Tauber (its Rathaus to the left) and King Ludwig's castles are well known and crowded with visitors from around the world. Others like those within the triangle between Würzburg, Bamberg and Iphofen are relatively unvisited by non-Germans.

Rothenburg

nce the largest city in Germany due to its prime location on a major trade route to the East.

The wealth of many of its citizens funded the construction of elegant homes and public buildings. Redirection of trade following Columbus' discoveries put the city into a backwater.
The resulting economic decline took away the wealth that would have funded rebuilding over the centuries. What was an economic tragedy for the city's residents from the 16th century onward has become a modern tourist boom. The city, frozen in time, now represents perhaps the largest and finest collection of unmodified architecture and city plan from the middle ages. There is much to recommend in Rothenburg, including the overall setting and ambiance.
We particularly enjoyed St. Jakobskirche. Though Gothic, it is particularly 'light' for that style. It is home to the spectacular Heiligblut-Altar carved by Tilman Riemenschneider, alone worth a long journey to the city. The Crime and Punishment Museum is one of a kind (perhaps fortunately.) The Herrngasse with its mansions and the city square, despite the somewhat overdone city hall, are evocative of times past.
The Baumeisterhaus on Obere Schmiedgasse just off the main square in Rothenburg has excellent meals; a bit expensive, but good value.

Würzburg

his old city is notable for its Residenz (Prince-Bishop's palace,) Dom (cathedral,) ancient (and unique to us) boat-crane and the Festung (fortress) Marienburg with its commanding view overlooking the city.

The town was flattened by a 1945 air raid. Though the raid melted the Dom's bells, the church seemed to survived the bombing intact; sadly the roof collapsed a year later requiring substantial rebuilding. Much from as early as the 12th century remains, but it is, oddly and attractively, coupled with many starkly modernistic elements.
Festung Marienburg is a jumble of constructions and reconstructions reaching across seven centuries. Its most notable feature is the museum in the old arsenal which, among other things, contains an excellent collection of Riemenschneider sculptures.
Würzburg's baroque Residenz is the city's jewel and in its day was the talk of the Western world. It is well worthwhile the hour or more it takes to tour.

Bamberg

ome have called this the loveliest town in Germany, though mainly ignored by most foreign tourists.

The wars of the last several hundred years largely missed affecting Bamberg; one of the few cities without substantial bomb damage to its treasures. As well, it has enjoyed a continual favorable economic situation. As a result it is a showcase for evolving architectural styles from the 13th century onward. Walking from the lower town across the the bridges tieing the old town hall to both parts of the city you'll have a feeling of being back in time.
The upper city (Domstadt) is dominated by the Domplatz, surrounded by the Dom and associated palaces. The Dom comes from the period of transition between Romanesque and Gothic styles, and the interior is particularly graceful and attractive.

Coburg

short distance north of Bamberg, its 'old town' is a pleasant jumble of twisting streets and lovely old buildings.

The city is dominated by one of the most outstanding sights in the upper reaches of Franconia, the Veste Coburg (citadel or fortress). Built in the 13th century it was a major residence for the family that gave rise to the Saxe-Coburgs, the ancestors of Prince Albert and the present British reigning family. Luther was a resident in 1350 for six months while avoiding the Pope. Veste Coburg is quite interesting architecturally. It serves now as a museum with a large collection of engravings and other art from people like Rembrandt, Cranach and Dürer. You'll also find the usual castle contents of pikes, cannon and the like.
On your way to or from Coburg make a small detour to stop, perhaps for coffee and a pastry, in the little town of Staffelstein just south of Lichtenfels; it sports an attractive half-timbered city hall and many nicely decorated half-timbered buildings along the main street.

Kitzingen's Falterturm

here's yet more within the triangle. You'll find Vierzehnheiligen, the Steigerwald forest preserve, Kitzingen's 'broken' or 'leaning' tower, and the "Franconian Switzerland" region among other attractions. Iphofen is ideally situated for day trips in the area. Since it's just off the north end of the "Romantic Road" it's a good base at the start or end of a trip along this scenic byway.

The Royal Castles

udwig's castles are a hard-driving three hours to the south of Iphofen and are at the top of Germany's attractions. We particularly enjoyed Neuschwanstein and Linderhof. A day trip is possible. although there's more than enough in the area to merit a leisurely one- or two- night excursion. In Visiting Neuschwanstein we describe what you'll find. As well we provide notes on getting around in the area and describe other sights you'll want to fit in.

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