On the track of history

Take some time to get to know the city and discover its many facets. You'll be inspired. The history of Würzburg goes back to the year 1000 BC when a Celtic stronghold was built atop the Marienberg mountain. In 742 AD St. Boniface founded the bishopric of Würzburg and named St. Burkard the first bishop.

The Festung Marienberg (Marienberg Fortress) is the symbol of the city. Built on the original stronghold in 704 was the Marienkirche (St. Mary's Church) and, around it at the start of the 13th century, the first fortified castle. The medieval fortress was the seat of the Prince-Bishops for more than 500 years.

Everywhere such renowned artists as Riemenschneider, Neumann and Tiepolo left behind masterworks. First and foremost, Balthasar Neumann with his splendid Baroque edifice, the onetime Palace of the Prince-Bishops. As one of Europe's most precious architectural treasures, it is listed in the UNESCO "World Heritage" catalog.

Also well worth seeing is the Dom St. Kilian (Cathedral of St. Kilian) - Germany's fourth-largest Romanesque church. The artistic highlight here is the sepulchre of Prince-Bishop von Scherenberg created by Riemenschneider. Art and culture have always been an integral part of life in Würzburg. Especially rich is the range of classical concerts, such as the Mozart Festival.

Additionally, Würzburg is known as the "Gateway to the Romantic Road". It is the metropolis of sunny Franconia where it flanks the Main River, a landscape whose vineyards are famous throughout the world. And it is Franconian wine that, in perfect harmony with Baroque splendor, always makes a visit to Würzburg a memorable experience.