The early medieval town of Bamberg is in northern Bavaria and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It has one of Europe’s largest intact old town squares and is remarkable due to its distinctive half-timbered old buildings.

Bamberg was originally settled by the Slavs and starting in the 10th century served as a link between central and eastern Europe.

In the 11th century the town’s unique style strongly influenced the architectural development of central Europe.

During the 18th century enlightenment, Bamberg was the home of the philosopher Hegel and ETA Hoffman who wrote The Nutcracker.

The Alte Hofhaltung, or Old Palace, dates from 10th and 11th centuries. The inner courtyard is surrounded by half-timbered buildings with steeply pitched roofs and stunning wooden walkways.

Bamberg is a visual feast!

It is also pleasing to the palate with wonderful restaurants and is famous for its beer! The town has nine breweries, one of which makes an unusual smoky tasting brew, which no, I didn’t try, and neither did my husband which is a surprise because he is the beer aficionado in the family. I guess we’ll just have to go back!

The town is ideal for exploring on foot and full of wonderful surprises at every turn.

Cheers to you from the remarkably beautiful old town of Bamberg~