Speyer, Germany

Welcome to Speyer, one of the oldest cities in Germany! Founded by the Romans, Speyer has a rich history and is home to some of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. Located on the banks of the Rhine River, Speyer is a beautiful city that should be on every traveler’s list. With approximately 50,000 inhabitants, the city has a vibrant atmosphere and a lot to offer. In this article, we’ll explore the main sights, transportation options, and notable people from Speyer.

One of the main attractions of Speyer is its stunning cathedral. Speyer Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Beneath the high altar lie the tombs of eight Holy Roman Emperors and German kings, making it a must-visit for history buffs. Other noteworthy churches in Speyer include the Trinity Church and the Memorial Church, which was built in remembrance of the Protestation of 1529.

The Altpörtel, which translates to ‘old gate,’ is another iconic landmark in Speyer. This gate is part of the old city walls that were built in the 11th century. At 55 meters tall, the Altpörtel is the highest of the three gates and offers stunning views of the city.

For those interested in Jewish history, Speyer is one of the ShUM-cities, which formed the cultural center of Jewish life in Europe during the Middle Ages. The Jewish courtyard in Speyer is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains remnants of a medieval synagogue and an intact mikveh.

Transportation in Speyer is easy and convenient. The city lies on the Schifferstadt-Wörth railway and offers hourly connections to Mannheim and Karlsruhe. Additionally, the Technikmuseum Speyer is a popular attraction and showcases a collection of vintage cars, airplanes, and trains.

Speyer has also produced many notable people throughout history. Philipp Hieronymus Brinckmann was a landscape and historical painter as well as a copper cutter. Anselm Feuerbach was a famous German painter. Carl Jakob Adolf Christian Gerhardt was a German physician. Hermann Detzner was the leader of the German Schutztruppe in German New Guinea. Lars Stindl is a German footballer who currently plays for Borussia Mönchengladbach.

All in all, Speyer is a beautiful city that offers something for everyone. From its iconic landmarks to its rich history and culture, Speyer is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. So why not add it to your travel itinerary and experience the magic of this charming city for yourself?