Introduction
Würzburg is a historic city in northwestern Bavaria, Germany, situated along the Main River about 120 km southeast of Frankfurt. The city, with a population of approximately 126,000, is the capital of Lower Franconia and serves as a major administrative center. Founded by Celts and first mentioned in 704 CE, Würzburg was the seat of a wealthy and powerful Prince-Bishopric until 1801. The city is renowned for its Baroque architecture, particularly the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence with its Court Gardens, one of the grandest baroque palaces in Europe and a definite highlight of Germany. The cityscape features significant landmarks including the Marienberg Fortress, the 180-meter-long Old Main Bridge, and St. Kilian Cathedral, the fourth largest Romanesque church in Germany. The city is also a center of wine production in the Franconia region, known for its mineral-rich dry white wines, and houses the Julius-Maximilians-University, founded in 1582.
Interesting Facts about Würzburg
- Würzburg is a charming Baroque city situated on the Main River, offering a blend of history, culture, and wine, with its picturesque vineyards and idyllic location.
- The Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and the impressive Tiepolo frescoes in the Imperial Hall.
- Marienberg Fortress, with its origins dating back to the Hallstatt era, houses the Mainfränkisches Museum and offers breathtaking views of the city.
- The Old Main Bridge, built in the 15th century, is adorned with statues of saints and is a popular spot for socialising and enjoying local wine.
- Würzburg Cathedral, the fourth largest Romanesque church in Germany, showcases a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles.
- The city is famous for its wine culture, with guided tours available at notable wineries such as Staatlicher Hofkeller, Juliusspital, and Bürgerspital.
History
Würzburg, situated along the Main River in Bavaria, Germany, originated as a Celtic settlement called Segodunum before becoming a Roman fort. The city was first mentioned in 704 and became the seat of a Merovingian duke around 650. Irish missionaries Kilian, Kolonat and Totnan Christianised the area in 686. The city gained prominence when Saint Boniface established a bishopric there in 742, and the bishops eventually gained ducal authority over eastern Franconia by the 12th century. The city was so influential it was considered the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Notable events include the Würzburg witch trials (1626-1631) where 600-900 people were burnt, and the construction of the magnificent Würzburg Residence (1719-1744), now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city experienced various political changes, becoming part of Bavaria in 1803, then the seat of the Grand Duchy of Würzburg in 1805, before returning to Bavaria in 1814. During World War II, Würzburg suffered devastating damage when 87% of the city was destroyed in a 17-minute bombing raid on 16 March 1945, earning it the nickname "Grab am Main" (the grave on the Main). Today, Würzburg is known for its wine trade, printing industry, and as an administrative capital.
Main Attractions
Würzburg Residence
The crown jewel of Würzburg is undoubtedly the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This magnificent Late Baroque palace, often compared to Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and the Palace of Versailles, is a testament to 18th-century architecture and artistry. The palace's grand staircase and the breathtaking ceiling fresco by Tiepolo are particularly noteworthy. Don't miss the adjacent Hofgarten, a beautifully landscaped garden that complements the palace's grandeur.
Würzburg Residence.
Marienberg Fortress
Perched high above the city, Marienberg Fortress is an imposing landmark that has watched over Würzburg for centuries. This former seat of the prince-bishops offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's 3,000-year history. Visitors can explore the Fürstenbaumuseum, which showcases opulent bishops' apartments complete with fine paintings and handmade tapestries. The fortress also boasts formal gardens and provides stunning panoramic views of Würzburg and the surrounding vineyards. The fortress houses the Museum für Franken, one of Bavaria's largest art collections, featuring valuable works from Franconian artists.
Old Main Bridge (Alte Mainbrücke)
The Old Main Bridge is the heart of Würzburg's social scene. This pedestrian bridge, reminiscent of Prague's Charles Bridge, is adorned with 12 statues of saints and historical figures. It's a popular gathering spot, especially in the evenings when locals and tourists alike enjoy a glass of Franconian wine while watching the sunset. The bridge offers beautiful views of the Marienberg Fortress and the city's skyline.
Aerial night view of Old Town with the cathedral and the city hall, Würzburg
Market Square (Marktplatz)
The vibrant Market Square is the bustling centre of Würzburg's old town. Surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval and baroque buildings, it's home to an open-air market where you can find fresh local produce, crafts, and treats. The square is also flanked by numerous cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to soak in the local atmosphere.
St. Mary's Chapel (Marienkapelle)
Located in the Market Square, St. Mary's Chapel is a striking example of Gothic architecture. Its ornate exterior features intricate sandstone sculptures by Tilman Riemenschneider, including figures of Adam and Eve at the south portal. The chapel's distinctive red and white facade makes it a standout landmark in the city centre.
The Little Chapel (Käppele)
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the Käppele is a charming pilgrimage church known for its Baroque architecture. While smaller than some of Würzburg's other attractions, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of the city and surrounding vineyards.
Old Town Hall (Rathaus)
The Würzburg Rathaus, or Old Town Hall, is a beautiful blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. Located near the Market Square, it's not only a centre of local government but also hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Alte Mainmühle
At the foot of the Old Main Bridge, you'll find the Alte Mainmühle, a historic mill turned into a popular restaurant. Its outdoor terrace offers a perfect spot to enjoy local cuisine and wine while taking in views of the bridge and the Marienberg Fortress.
Aerial view of the Marienberg Fortress, Würzburg
Top Museums
Museum im Kulturspeicher
For art enthusiasts, the Museum im Kulturspeicher is a must-visit. This modern art museum showcases a wide range of art from the 19th century to the present day, allowing visitors to explore the evolution of artistic styles and movements over two centuries.
Röntgen Memorial Site
The Röntgen Memorial Site pays tribute to Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, the Nobel Prize-winning physicist who discovered X-rays. Located in Röntgen's former laboratory, this museum offers insight into the life and groundbreaking work of this pioneering scientist.
Museum am Dom
The Museum am Dom, owned by the Diocese of Würzburg, is an art museum that showcases a rich collection of religious art and artifacts. It reflects the region's deep religious heritage and cultural significance.
Siebold Museum
Dedicated to the life and work of Philipp Franz von Siebold, a renowned doctor and scientist, the Siebold Museum offers a unique perspective on his contributions to various scientific fields, including ethnology and botany.
Local Cuisine
Würzburg offers a delightful array of traditional Franconian and German cuisine, with hearty dishes that reflect the region's rich culinary heritage. The city's most renowned restaurant, Backöfele, serves authentic Franconian specialities including Schäufele (crispy pork shoulder with diamond-shaped rind), traditional bratwurst with wine sauerkraut, and the local favourite 'Blaue Zipfel' (sausages cooked in wine broth with onions and carrots). The regional cuisine is particularly meat-centric, with pork featuring prominently in many dishes, whilst local specialities like the Franconian Wedding Soup with bread and liver dumplings showcase the area's sophisticated approach to traditional cooking. Visitors can complement their meals with Franconian wines, as Würzburg is situated in one of Germany's premier wine-growing regions.
Shopping
Würzburg offers a delightful shopping experience with its charming medieval streets lined with boutique shops, local craft stores and traditional German markets. The vibrant Market Square, situated in the heart of the city, serves as the primary shopping hub, surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval and baroque buildings where visitors can find fresh products, local crafts and treats. The city centre features a mix of well-known international brands and local boutiques, with notable establishments including Galeria Kaufhof, TK Maxx and the stylish Echter-Galerie shopping centre. For luxury shopping enthusiasts, the nearby Wertheim Village outlet centre houses over 110 designer boutiques offering significant discounts on premium brands. The charming Dompassage shopping mall adds to the retail landscape, providing a blend of local shops and dining options that capture the essence of this historic Franconian city.
Nature in and around Würzburg
Würzburg offers a delightful blend of natural attractions both within and around the city. The picturesque Steinbachtal valley, located in the south of Würzburg, serves as a popular recreational area featuring the enchanting 700-metre-long Anna Gorge and a free botanical garden. The region is surrounded by stunning vineyards that create a magnificent backdrop to the cityscape, particularly visible from the Marienberg Fortress viewpoints. The Steigerwald, a densely wooded low mountain range near Würzburg, comprises nearly 70% beech trees and stands as Bavaria's second-largest deciduous forest, offering excellent opportunities for peaceful walks and nature appreciation. The area's natural beauty is further enhanced by the Main River, which winds through the city, whilst the surrounding countryside features extensive beech forests and numerous walking trails that showcase the region's natural splendour.
Getting Around
Würzburg offers a comprehensive public transport network consisting of five tram lines and 23 bus routes, serving approximately 30 million passengers annually. The tram system, operating every 7 to 15 minutes, covers 42 kilometres of track and connects major areas of the city, whilst buses run at 20-minute intervals. Single tickets cost €3.10, day tickets are €5.20 for one person, and a 6-trip ticket is available for €12.70. Tickets can be purchased from machines at tram stops, directly from bus drivers (cash only), or through the FAIRTIQ mobile app. Most tram lines operate as light rail in their own rights-of-way outside the city centre, making for efficient travel, and the network is particularly well-connected along a central corridor between the main railway station (Hauptbahnhof) and Sanderring.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal time to visit Würzburg is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically May, June, September, and October, when the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds are moderate. During these months, temperatures range from 11°C to 22°C, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. While summer (July and August) offers the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, it's also the peak tourist season with higher accommodation prices and larger crowds. Winter visits can be rewarding too, particularly in December when the city's Christmas markets create a festive atmosphere, though travellers should be prepared for cold temperatures hovering around 1-5°C.
