Discover Würzburg: History, the Main and Franconian Towns
Accommodation in Würzburg
In the Würzburg district, vineyards, forests, the wide-open Gäu plains and the Main valley shape a diverse cultural landscape. Historic townscapes, outdoor sculptures, wine-related attractions and nature experiences each offer something different.
History in historic townscapes
The historic old town of Ochsenfurt is surrounded by an almost complete fortification system with numerous town gates and towers. The New Town Hall dates from the 15th century; its Lanzentürmchen tower houses a unique clock featuring figurines and a moon dial. The fortifications and this distinctive detail on the town hall each reveal different facets of the town’s history.
In Rottendorf, the former moated castle and the Fronhof are among the oldest buildings in the town; the castle was built before 1500. After the foundation stone was laid in 2012, it was renovated and converted into a library with a reading café and multipurpose hall for community events and weddings. The town brings together historic architecture and these community uses in one place.
The oldest buildings of Brattenstein Castle in Röttingen date from the 12th and 13th centuries. The castle was home to various noble families, including the Lords of Hohenlohe. Since 21 July 1984, its courtyard has hosted the Röttingen FRANKENFESTSPIELE. Another way to explore the town is the approximately two-kilometre-long Sundial Trail, which passes 25 different sundials within and around the town walls. Around 70 different culinary and medicinal herbs grow in the Paracelsus Garden, some cultivated and some wild. The garden is also a stop on the Kneipp Vital Trail, laid out according to Kneipp’s five pillars of health.
The Main, activities and wine
The riverside promenade along the Main in Veitshöchheim combines green spaces with sculptures by various artists. Facilities include a large adventure playground with equipment for all ages, including a trampoline and climbing wall, as well as a barefoot path and a Kneipp wading pool. From May to October, the Nixe old-town ferry in Ochsenfurt offers regular trips and ferry crossings on the Main. Check the current timetable before your visit.
Art and wine also come together in the Siegelswäldchen grove above the Sommerhausen vineyards, where life-size works by seven artists explore the theme of winemakers. At Kapellenberg in Frickenhausen, three massive blocks of shell limestone form an “altar” where, among other things, wine tastings are held outdoors. These examples offer different experiences, from art in the vineyards to an outdoor tasting venue.
The terroir f at the Eibelstadter Kapellenberg vineyard offers views of the historic old town and the Main valley, along with impressive architecture. A terroir f at Thüngersheim’s Johannisberg is dedicated to the theme “Wine and Mythology – Wine is divine!” The second magical site, at the Scharlachberg vineyard, focuses on “Wine & Science – Wine inspires.” In Randersacker, the Franconian Triassic—Bunter sandstone, shell limestone and Keuper—is presented as the geological period probably most significant to Franconian winegrowing.
Nature and discoveries
Only native plants from the dry habitats of Main Franconia’s shell-limestone region grow in the Eternal Garden in Erlabrunn. The garden is on the Main Cycle Route, north of the tennis courts, and can be reached on foot or by bicycle. If you are interested in the protective and practical functions of forests, guided tours at the Gramschatzer Wald Forest Experience Centre introduce these topics in an informative and engaging way. The facilities at Dürrbachpark in Güntersleben include mini golf, beach volleyball, a bocce court and a Kneipp wading pool.
There are also plenty of opportunities for cultural and historical discoveries: the Würzburg district has 19 museums reflecting the history, traditions, art and culture of the region. The Triassic Museum in Kleinochsenfurt offers a glimpse into the geological history of 200 million years ago. In Tückelhausen, visitors can follow in the footsteps of monastic life. The subjects span everything from geological history to regional culture.
Choose the right base for your stay
Whether you are most interested in historic buildings, experiences along the Main, wine-related attractions or nature, the destinations described here are spread across different towns in the district. First decide which of these interests matter most for your trip, then include the relevant destination in your accommodation search. This lets you choose accommodation locations that suit the experiences you want to discover.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Aub, Tauberrettersheim, Eisenheim, Theilheim, Würzburg, Margetshöchheim, Höchberg, Helmstadt, Giebelstadt, Hausen Bei Würzburg, Reichenberg, Kist, Zell Am Main, Rimpar, Bergtheim, Gaukönigshofen, Gerbrunn.
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