Although, Wurzburg was completely destroyed 6 weeks before the end of World War II it has been restored to its original baroque style. It is located in the Franconian region and is home to the largest vineyard in Germany. It is also home to a major university that was founded in 1582!
The walking tour this morning was brisk to say the least - I can't begin to guess the wind chill - needless to say it was not what we expected!
The Bishop's Residenz is a huge, ornate palace started in 1719 and built over the next 25 years. In those days the bishop was also the political leader of the town. Most of it was destroyed during the war but, city residents hid as many of the treasures as they could before the bombing. It reminded us of the Palace of Versailles in its "ornateness!" The main entrance is huge because they used to drive their coaches into the palace. They were able to protect the 2,000 square foot fresco in the reception hall by covering it with wood. It is amazing that the colors remain vibrant after all these years! I bought a book of pictures because no cameras are allowed.
We had a delicious lunch at a local cafe' and then meandered back to the ship. One of the great things about a river cruise is that the ships dock right in the middle of the town and it is an easy on/off. - no long piers to walk!
We have met couples from San Antonio and Austin and last night two women sat across from us - when Roger asked them where they were from one of them raised her hand like a mitten - I thought, OMG they are from Michigan - she pointed and said "Jackson, Michigan!" The world is smaller than we think!
 |
| The Fortress above the city from the bridge of saints |
 |
| St. Killian Basilica - Maypole in the market square |
 |
| A Catholic "Pilgrimage" church |
 |
| The library |
 |
| A small portion the the Bishop's Residenz |
 |
| The Fortress and vineyards |
No comments:
Post a Comment