In the place where the Danube meets the Regen, lies a beautiful and old German city – Regensburg. Perhaps, no other city in Germany has such well-reserved medieval architecture and atmosphere of the past. Regensburg always cordially welcomes its guests, demonstrating its historical and cultural treasures, many of which are more than two millennia old. Every building has its history that is no less interesting than the past of the city in general. Consider staying in Regensburg for several days to get acquainted with the landmarks of not only the city but also its neighborhoods.
The history of the city started yet in the Stone Age. Archaeological excavations proved that Celtic tribes lived here already in 400 BC. The first fortress in the region – Castra Regina – was built in 79 AD. Later, the fortress was transformed into a watchtower. In the second half of the 60s of the 2nd century AD, the tower was destroyed during the Marcomannic war. When the Roman army made the invaders leave, it restored the fortress. Soon after that, a settlement appeared near the stronghold. Starting from 500 AD and almost over the next three centuries, Regensburg was the seat of the Agilolfings, a noble family that ruled the Duchy of Bavaria. The last member of the family bent his knees to Charlemagne.
The cathedral is the most graceful and majestic building in the city. Regensburg Cathedral was built in honor of St. Peter. It is located in the heart of the city, on the main square of Regensburg. This is one of the finest examples of the German Gothic style in South Germany. The building of the shrine started in 1273 on the site of the Roman church that had been destroyed by fire. The latest stages of the construction of the cathedral took place in 1520. The hundred-meter tall towers in the western part of the cathedral were added in the second half of the 19th century.
Every detail of the fabulous church deserves a closer look. The central portal has various bas-reliefs with the scenes from the Bible, famous saints, and kings of the past. The cathedral has three naves, the height of each of which is thirty-two meters. The total length of the cathedral is eighty-six meters. Take a closer look at the inner décor and you will notice the famous Biblical scene – the Annunciation. The Archangel Gabriel tells the Blessed Virgin Mary about the good tiding. Finally, there are multiple statues and images of Saint Peter who is the cathedral’s patron saint. Regensburg Cathedral still has the original stained-glass windows that date back to the 13th century.
Would you like to visit a luxurious palace? In north-east Regensburg, on the bank of the picturesque Danube River, vacationers are welcome to visit the Royal villa. The gorgeous estate is located less than one kilometer from the Cathedral Square. The construction of the eye-catching estate started in 1854 and lasted two years. The result was worth the effort – the Royal villa is a magnificent palace that is a true architectural masterpiece in the Neo-Gothic style. Initially, the building belonged to the King of Bavaria Maximilian II who turned the estate into his summer residence. Famous architect Ludwig Voltz developed the design of the gorgeous villa.
Despite the beauty of the large palace, the royal family visited it only twice. They visited the estate in summer 1858 for the first time, and two years later the family visited the residence again. The luxurious villa was deserted for the rest of the time. The historic building was handed to the governmental organization specializing in the protection of the Bavarian landmarks only in 2007. Even though the estate was abandoned for many years, it has retained its grace and royal charm. The villa has an eye-catching attic consisting of several layers and a wonderful garden that surrounds the building.
Many German trains make a stop in Regensburg, so it is easy to get to this city from any part of the country. The closest large international airport is located in Munich. It is not hard to find air carriers that offer direct flights to this German city. It takes roughly one and a half hours to reach Regensburg from Munich by train. If you choose to take a bus ride, the journey time will be ten minutes longer. Finally, a car or taxi ride is a bit longer than one hour.
Sightseeing in Germany: things to see
Every city of Germany has much to offer to its visitors – numerous historic landmarks, masterpieces of architecture, religious shrines, interesting museums and many monuments that will amaze even experienced travellers.
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