"The Seven Hills of Bamberg" Bamberg by antistar


Bamberg Travel Guide: 460 reviews and 1,311 photos

For a small city, Bamberg punches well above its weight in terms of history and tourist attractions. It is easily one of the premiere medieval towns in Germany, perhaps even Europe, and competes with the likes of Bruges for historical splendour and photogenicity. Straddling the River Regnitz, and with sites and scenic views dotted around the seven hills about, Bamberg has more than its fair share of unforgettable views, including the old town hall perched precariously over the middle of the fast flowing river snaking through the houses. It's very easy to be taken by this beautiful little city, and it should not be missed if you are in the area.

This city of 70,000 people has a long and glorious history. Although probably much older, it was first brought to life in the eleventh century by Emperor Heinrich II, who wanted to turn the seven hills into a Rome of the north. While his wish was never realised in terms of size, it probably packs more grand art and architecture into each square mile than even Rome itself. There are plenty of outstanding buildings, including the Kaiserdom sat in the unusually sloping square, stunning sculptures around every corner, and every architectural style from Romanesque to Post-Modern.

The town itself is very relaxed, with a sense of comfortable affluence. There are many a flash car, excellent restaurants and the people dress like politicians and movie stars. The older gentlemen all seemed to be sporting a traditional German style of wide brimmed black hats, long black jackets, and starch straight black trousers, like a town full of Helmut Kohls. The women too were immaculately turned out, as if they'd spent longer on getting ready than they intended to spend on their outing. There's also a major American base nearby, so there are plenty of American voices to be heard and many people speak English.

Things I Loved

The Rathaus, the rolling medieval streets, the amazing architecture.

Disappointments

Hard to fault Bamberg. It packs a lot into a tiny space.

  • Last visit to Bamberg: Nov 2004
  • Intro Updated Mar 20, 2006
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Reviews (15)

Comments (10)

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  • CatherineReichardt's Profile Photo
    CatherineReichardt Oct 16, 2010 at 11:01 PM Report Abuse

    Oh dear, yet another entry onto my To Do list - Tim, you're a bad influence! Regards Cathy

  • BruceDunning's Profile Photo
    BruceDunning Jul 2, 2010 at 4:13 PM Report Abuse

    You have presented this city with great style. Your pictures and comments are very helpful in our plan to try and see it next spring

  • TheWanderingCamel's Profile Photo
    TheWanderingCamel May 4, 2008 at 8:23 AM Report Abuse

    We loved Bamburg too - were lucky enough to have a hotel roomthat looked straight out to the Alte Rathaus - what a building! Nice page, nice memories. leyle

  • 1courage's Profile Photo
    1courage Nov 2, 2006 at 12:46 PM Report Abuse

    For me Bamberg is the most beautiful german city. I`ve already been there and I was amazed! Great page.

  • 2Ez4Robert Jul 18, 2006 at 7:06 AM Report Abuse

    Hi, I live in Bamberg and was about to write a tip, but it looks like you got all the best places already.

  • Jim_Eliason's Profile Photo
    Jim_Eliason Apr 3, 2005 at 4:57 AM Report Abuse

    great page, my brother lived here for a few years.

  • Henkster's Profile Photo
    Henkster Feb 20, 2005 at 7:30 AM Report Abuse

    this must be one of Germanys real gems, most people miss it, though, cause of its location i guess.

  • jamiesno's Profile Photo
    jamiesno Jan 6, 2005 at 4:54 PM Report Abuse

    You were certainly right about this city taking great photos. I love that building on your front page for Bamberg. Medival architecture is great isnt' it. Cheers!

  • bugulma's Profile Photo
    bugulma Dec 10, 2004 at 12:19 AM Report Abuse

    so many sightseeings in such small town

  • aussiedoug's Profile Photo
    aussiedoug Dec 2, 2004 at 5:25 AM Report Abuse

    Gr8 tips beautifully highlighted with absolutely superb photos. The way you captured the light & shadows on the buildings with the beautiful colours in the sky was almost magical.

antistar

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