Marienberg Fortress, Würzburg
1 / 7
Marienberg Fortress - by Christian Horvat in the Public Domain
Description
Marienberg Fortress is located atop a hill, dominating the city of Würzburg across the Main river. It was initially built as a fort in the 13th century when the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg (who also held the title of Duke of East Francona) moved their residence to Marienberg. It was then significantly altered in the late 15th century to serve as a residence to Bishop Lorenz van Bibra with fortifications enhanced during the next 200 years. Buildings from that time follow a Renaissance style but in the early 18th century the palas and church were redesigned in Baroque style. A few years later the Bishops moved out to another location so that the fortress function became purely military. Highlights include the Inner Court with St Mary’s Church and the Bergfried (keep), the main residence (Fürstenbau), the Prince's Garden and the Maschikuliturm defensive wall and tower. There is also a museum onsite.
Access & Transport
The Fortress can easily be seen, 100m above the left bank of the river, 1km from the bridge crossing into the old town and 2.5km southwest of the train station. Parking is available next to the fortress. Bus service 9 goes to the monument and tram/bus stop Alte Mainbrücke (7,14, 91) is only 1km away at the bottom of the hill. Würzburg is linked by express train to Nuremberg (55mins) and Frankfurt (1h10mins). By car, it is a 105km/90mins drive from Nuremberg on the A73/A3 and 120km/90mins from Frankfurt on the A3.
Instructions & Recommendations
The Museum für Franken is operated separately.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral except for some electricity consumption (lighting and heating). This activity helps preserve the region's architectural and cultural heritage and brings some economic influx to the town.
Conclusion
The castle, church, keep and other defensive structures coupled with a long history make for a genuinely interesting visit and a nice complement to the rest of Würzburg old town. Highly recommended.
Key positive
Striking setting and great views
Impressive scale
Key negative
None
Suitability
The fortress is only partially accessible for wheelchair users, the inner court is barrier free but access to the rooms is via staircases.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 30m
est. visit time:1h 45m
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY -
TUESDAY09:00 - 18:00
WEDNESDAY09:00 - 18:00
THURSDAY09:00 - 18:00
FRIDAY09:00 - 18:00
SATURDAY09:00 - 18:00
SUNDAY09:00 - 18:00
Start of Season 2:Nov, 01
MONDAY -
TUESDAY10:00 - 16:30
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 16:30
THURSDAY10:00 - 16:30
FRIDAY10:00 - 16:30
SATURDAY10:00 - 16:30
SUNDAY10:00 - 16:30