The fact that it is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in the whole of Germany makes Regensburg a popular stop off for many Danube cruises and extended European river cruises. There’s certainly a lot of history to explore here and a number of landmark buildings which should be on any visitor’s must-do list.
Though it’s justifiably associated with medieval times, Regensburg has a history which goes back much further, to 5000BC and the time of its first Neolithic settlements. Like so many towns and cities in Europe it was occupied by the Romans, who built a fortress there in the first century AD. By the time of the 12th century, it had become a bishopric and enjoyed strong trade links with key cities such as Paris and Venice and 1146 saw the completion of famous landmark the Stone Bridge, which still stands today. In 1245 it became a Free Imperial City and in 1663, was put firmly on the political and religious map when it became home of the Holy Roman Empire’s General Assembly until 1806, when the Napoleonic War brought its dissolution.
What not to miss
Regensburg is home to a number of key architectural sights, many of which can be found in its UNESCO World Heritage Site medieval city centre, which unlike many historic German towns, emerged from the allied bombings of the Second World War relatively unscathed.
The Cathedral of St Peter’s
As soon as you arrive in Regensburg, you won’t fail to miss this gothic delight, which dominates the skyline. Its twin spires make it instantly recognisable and are its newest feature, dating back to 1869. Work actually began in 1275, with the bulk of it being completed by 1634. It’ll certainly take you some time to absorb the magnificent craftsmanship of the exterior and the beautiful interior is a must-see too, boasting a number of notable monuments, chapels and stained glass windows.
Alte Kapelle
Something of a contrasting companion piece to St Peter’s, this bright church is certainly smaller, though in some ways more beautiful, with a breathtaking baroque interior which helps to make it one of the city’s most popular attractions. The good news is, you’re permitted to take photos inside providing that there is no service going on, so you can capture the splendour for yourself.
Old Stone Bridge
The descriptively named thoroughfare has become one of the city’s most celebrated attractions and indeed, when you think that it is well over 850 years old it’s not difficult to understand why so many visitors flock to walk across it. So many bridges were destroyed during the Second World War, which makes the survival of this one all the more significant. The bridge offers a great view of the Donau River, which converges with the Danube in Regensburg.
Altes Rathaus
Nestled in the old city centre, this is the colourful old town hall and a key building in Regensburg’s history thanks to it being the place where the Holy Roman Empire sat for their ‘diet’, or general assembly, for almost 150 years. A tour of the building will tell you everything you need to know about this period and others throughout the town’s history.
Walhalla Temple
This curious attraction a little way out of the city centre looks for all the world like a replica of the Parthenon, sitting on a hill looking down on the Danube below. It is in fact a museum built to honour commendable people, a sort of hall of fame for some of German history’s most notable personalities. As well as an impressive selection of busts and plaques, it also offers some great views of the Danube.
By Simon Brotherton
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