Well I’m almost ready to move on from Berlin but my blog posts are still in Nuremberg. I’m catching up, but I reckon they are always going to be a few days (week) behind me.
I decided to spend my last full day in Nuremberg touring the Castle. I started at the old town wall and toured through the small section behind it that used to be like a medieval customs posts, where visitors had to check in before being allowed in the city. Now days it is filled with small shops selling crafts and a few restaurants.
Where the moat was is now a tree lined bike path.
I head up Konigstrasse (King Street) towards the castle at the top of the hill. There are a few, actually more than a few, historic buildings and churches along the way.
The old granary is now a bar and restaurant.
St. Lorenz is a Gothic church that is filled with a lot of impressive religious artwork.
After crossing the bridge you come to the Hauptmarkt, which is the main square in Nuremberg. The Church of Our Lady anchors the plaza and in one corner is one of the most elaborately decorated wells or fountains I’ve ever seen – once a main source of drinking water for the town. During the week the square is turned into an outdoor market place.
I didn’t inquire what this was. It looks like a Thomas The Tank Engine for tourists.
From there it is a rather steep walk uphill to the castle. I can see why they built them at the top of hills, I was breathing a little heavy by the time I reached the entrance and I wasn’t wearing my suit of armor. Factor in the distance from the outer wall and I imagine most armies would be ready for a good nap before they began their siege.
I bought a ticket and toured the castle museum. It was three stories but each floor was rather small. It was mainly a collection of medieval arms and armor and told the story of the importance of the castle throughout the years. While I dig touring the old castles, it lets my imagination run wild, the museum was fun and interesting, but didn’t knock my socks off.
A quick stop to tour the castle gardens and I was on my way again.
Next to the castle was the Tiergarten, another small public square surrounded by traditional half-timber houses. At the center is a creepy sculpture of a rabbit. Apparently it was to honor the artist Albrecht Durer, whose former house is on the corner.
My walk took me down cobblestone streets lined with more charming half-timber houses.
I’m told the little window sticking out from the sides of houses were actually altars that the wealthy once built into their homes. However, since people could not be above God, the alters had to be built outside the homes. Or so I’m told. Or read. Or maybe I just made that up, I can’t remember everything.
Eventually I reached the river once again and my day was over, for sightseeing at least. I really enjoyed my time in Nuremberg. It is a small town with lots of historical significance and it’s medieval past is readily on display.
Plus they make a pretty good burger. But mayo for the fries? No sir. That is just wrong. I’d like to have a word with your manager please.
2 thoughts on “Nuremberg Castle And City Walk”
What a site to see, you have to wonder if towns like this ever looked this great in its medieval prime, I tend to doubt it. Hey that statue of the king has another holy hand grenade, watch out!
After seeing the statue of that huge rabbit in the town square it all makes sense. It’s no wonder there are so many holy hand grenades around this town.