A city that dates back all the way to the 11th century, Nuremberg has a lot to offer those who choose to visit. The city is synonymous with Christmas markets, gingerbread houses, mulled wine and toys, but visitors can also look forward to good beer, hearty German food, fascinating architecture and a lot of interesting history.
The city, known locally as Nürnberg, got its start with the construction of the Kaiserburg by the German King Henry III. Not long after the construction of the castle in the 11th century, settlements were built up around it. Over time, these settlements grew and by the 13th century, Nuremberg had become an independent imperial city within the Holy Roman Empire.
During the Second World War, allied bombs destroyed about 90% of the old city, but rather than lose so much of its history, it was decided that the city would be rebuilt to reflect its historic nature. Wherever possible, materials were salvaged and churches, monuments and houses were repaired or rebuilt using traditional materials. This painstaking process took around 38 years but has left Nuremberg with a newer city still filled with half-timbered houses and narrow, cobblestone streets that reflect its medieval and Renaissance history.
Visitors to Nuremberg will not be bored. The city is rich in sights and activities that will keep even the most demanding traveller entertained.
Must-see sights
No stay in this city would be complete without a visit to one of the city's most famous landmarks, the Kaiserburg. The Altstadt or old town is home to some of the city's oldest and most beautiful buildings including the Weinstandl, originally built in 1440 as a leper infirmary, and the Hospice of the Holy Spirit, built in the 1330's.
For the history buffs
The Second World War forms a significant part of this city's history. In the early 1900's, the National Socialist party of Germany made the city its unofficial headquarters and held annual rallies at the Nazi Party rally grounds here. Post-war, the city was used as the location of the Allied trials of German war criminals. There are numerous organised tours that explore this part of the city's history and museum exhibitions like the Nuremberg Trials Memorial in the top floor of the courthouse provide insight into this part of Germany's history.
For the love of beer
Beer enthusiasts can take a tour of the intricate network of sandstone cellars under the city. Though the cellars were used as bomb shelters during the Second World War, they were originally constructed for the ripening and storage of beer. Today, the Hausbrauerei Atstadthof uses a small part of these cellars for this very purpose once again. A tour of the cellars includes a visit to the craft brewery, the perfect place to taste some of the local specialities.
There are seasonal events taking place throughout the year in Nuremberg from quaint and cosy Christmas markets to summer music festivals.
Christkindlmarkt. Perhaps the most famous annual event, the Christmas market in the city's old town is a must-see.
Altstadtfest. Every September, the city celebrates the Old Town festival. Concerts, plays and events like fisherman jousting keep visitors entertained.
Open Air Festival. Twice during the summer months, the city puts on an open-air music festival at the Luitpoldhain park.
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