Like Rome Bamberg is also built on seven hills - something that fills its citizens with pride. Surrounded by a lush green landscape, the hills are a typical feature of the town, boasting many spires which can be seen from afar. Visit the famous Imperial Cathedral on Cathedral Hill and Altenburg Castle at the town's highest vantage point.
World Heritage
More than 1,300 listed buildings, winding lanes and an abundance of mediaeval churches make Bamberg a work of art of immense historical value. Because of the impressively well preserved architectural ensemble in the Old Town, Bamberg was awarded the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Not without reason: the successful mix of imposing architectural styles and baroque town houses lend the town an atmosphere that captivates visitors as soon as they arrive.
City on the hills
Island District
The Island District has always been the middle-class centre of Bamberg. This is still very much the case today with the pedestrian zone and its many shops. However, window shopping is not the only pastime the enchanting old half-timbered buildings have to offer. The restaurant trade is also well established here. The spectrum extends from trendy bars to "haute cuisine". The Island District is always full of life; it is home not only to most of the faculties of the Otto Friedrich University of Bamberg but also to many residents. Among the most striking sights are the "Old Town Hall" in the middle of the River Regnitz and the former Fishermen's settlement known as "Little Venice".
Market Gardeners' District
With its extensive, free expanses and typical market gardening houses, the market gardeners' district still shapes Bamberg's cityscape. Centuries ago, Bamberg's market gardeners were already exporting their products – onion sets, seeds and especially liquorice - well beyond the city borders. Even to this day, they are still referred to as the "onion treaders". In the market gardeners' quarter, the typical "market gardening" houses can still be found as they were in the days when they housed numerous market gardening families.
World-class documents
Since 1992 UNESCO's Memory of the World Register has been preserving historically important documents to make sure they are not forgotten. It comprises around 300 documents. Germany is represented inter alia with the Gutenberg Bible and the Song of the Nibelungs – and Bamberg appears with the Lorsch Pharmacopoeia and two illuminated manuscripts from the monastery of Reichenau.
The World Heritage Visitor Centre
Detailed information on the World Heritage City of Bamberg with a great exhibition on the reasons why Bamberg became a world heritage site in 1993. An entertaining interactive show makes for a perfect introduction to the city and its marvels.
