The Romantic Road was originally conceived by travel agents in the 1950’s as a way of promoting Bavarian tourism. The Romantic Road links a series of picturesque Bavarian towns and cities from Wurzburg in the south to Fussen in the Alps. The trip has become quite popular. In medieval times it used to be a trade route, connecting the center of Germany with the South. Today this region is thought by many international travelers to possess quintessential German scenery and culture. The Romantic Road is marked with brown signs along the road.
Wurzburg is a city in the region of Franconia, in Northern Bavaria, Germany. It is surrounded by forests and vineyards and this charming city straddles the upper Main River. Residenz is a vast compound near the center of the town. It originally started being built in 1720. It features a famous Baroque staircase. Giovanni Battista Tiepolo created the largest fresco in the world, which adorns the vault over the staircase. The palace suffered severe damage during World War II, but has been completely rebuilt. Major festivals in Wurzburg include the Africa Festival in May, the Mozartfest, in June and July and the Kiliani Volksfest in the middle of July.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is well known for its preserved medieval old town, and is a destination for tourists from around the world. The name of the city in German translates to Red Fortress above the Tauber. This is because the city is located on a plateau that overlooks the Tauber River and the red is from the red color of the roofs of the houses. This creates a very picturesque town. Rothenburg is the main attraction along the Romantic Road route. It is a very busy area throughout the summer. It is full of cobbled lanes and old houses, and is enclosed by towered walls.
Located on the west side of the town hall square is the Rathaus. The Gothic part of this building dates from 1250. This building served as the seat of government during the medieval ages and for the city of Rothenburg since the establishment of the federalist government. The Roedertor tower is located at the east end of the city, and is open daily for visitors to climb. At the top of the tower is a scenic view of almost the entire town. The room also contains manuscripts with historical information about the construction and history of the city wall.
This is just a small example of the quaint towns that you will happen upon on your voyage down the Romantic Road, there are more than 15 towns and villages featured on this road. Make sure you let the brown signs guide you on your way.
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