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Marienberg Fortress, Würzburg

Oberer Burgweg, Würzburg, Bayern

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.

Meta review

Most of the online reviews concur in describing the fortress as spectacular and offering great views over the city and surrounding countryside. The changes in architectural styles do surprise many reviewers even though they are not unexpected given the long history of the complex. The museums with their many paintings and statues are also given the thumbs up by those keen on history and / or religious art.

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

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Closed on 01 Jan, Shrove Tuesday, 24 & 25 Dec, 31 Dec.

av. transport time:1h 30m

est. visit time:1h 45m

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:Apr, 01

Season 1

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

Season 2

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

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€3
Adult
18 - 64
€4
Child
3 - 17
€0
Infant
0 - 2
€0
Most students can enter for free (ID required).

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