Würzburg Information

Würzburg is city in the German state of Lower Franconia located on the Main River. The city dates back to the medieval times and was first settled by the Alamanni and the Franks in the 5th and 6th century. From the 12th century onwards, Würzburg was the place to be for notable artists with the painter Mathias Grünewald and the sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider being some of the most famous residents to the city.

The dominant landmark in Würzburg is Marienberg Fortress that was the home of prince-bishops for over five centuries. The castle dates back to AD 704 and in the late 13th century fortifications were built. A guided tour is recommended and well worth the experience. The best views of Fortress Marienberg are from the Alte Mainbrücke (Old Bridge).

Another great landmark and a UNESCO world heritage site is the Würzburg Residence palace. Built in 1720-44 it is one of the most opulent castles in Europe and recognised as the “Castle above Castles”. Founded in Baroque style by the best architects at the time, the castle also features interior works by the famous Venetian painter Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. Nature lovers will also appreciate the Hofgarten around the palace grounds.

For more architectural brilliance, the Dom St Kilian (Cathedral) and the Pilgrimage church known as the “Käppele” are popular with tourists and visitors. The Dom St Kilian is the fourth largest Romanesque cathedral in Germany and the rich interior decorations of the Käppele are very impressive.

Art lovers will appreciate the Museum im Kulturespeicher Wurzburg. The art museum has 12 separate exhibition rooms with works primarily from the Franconia and Southern German regions although the Ruppert collection includes artworks from 22 other European countries. Other great museums to see include the Mainfränkisches Museum, Fürstenbau-Museum and the Martin-von-Wagner Museum.

Outside the main city, the Franconia region of Germany is well known for its quality of wine, making the annual Würzburger Weindorf (Wine Festival) an event not to miss.

For more holiday on Würzburg you may also want to visit the official government website Stadt Würzburg.