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Marienberg Fortress: A Würzburg Icon

Explore the iconic Marienberg Fortress in Würzburg: a historic landmark with stunning views, museums, and beautiful gardens. A must-see destination!

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Marienberg Fortress, a symbol of Würzburg, has been a strategic site since Celtic times. Home to prince-bishops for nearly five centuries, the fortress boasts Renaissance and Baroque architecture, offering stunning city views and housing two museums.

A brief summary to Marienberg Fortress

  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fortress involves walking on uneven surfaces and climbing hills.
  • Check the opening hours and tour schedules in advance, especially during the off-season (November to March).
  • Visit the Princes' Garden for stunning views of Würzburg and the Main River.
  • Allow ample time to explore both museums within the fortress, each offering unique insights into the region's history and art.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the fortress's rich history and architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Old Main Bridge (Alte Mainbrücke) in Würzburg's Altstadt, cross the bridge and follow the road uphill towards Marienberg Fortress. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes, with well-marked signs guiding the way.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus line 9 from Würzburg Residenzplatz to the Festung Marienberg. The bus operates during the summer season. A single ticket costs approximately €2.50.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Würzburg city center to Marienberg Fortress takes about 8 minutes and costs between €15-€19.

  • Driving

    Reach Marienberg Fortress by car via Höchberger Strasse and Oberen Burgweg. Numerous parking spaces are available near the fortress. Parking availability may be limited during peak season.

Unlock the Best of Marienberg Fortress

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Discover more about Marienberg Fortress

Marienberg Fortress, or Festung Marienberg in German, stands as a prominent landmark on the left bank of the Main River in Würzburg, Bavaria. This mighty fortress, a symbol of Würzburg, has been a fort since ancient times and served as the residence of the local prince-bishops for almost five centuries. The site's history stretches back to Celtic times, with a Celtic refuge existing as early as 704 A.D. Around 1200, construction of a massive castle began, and it was expanded over the centuries, incorporating Renaissance and Baroque styles. In 1631, after Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden conquered the area during the Thirty Years' War, the castle was reconstructed as a Baroque residence. The fortress suffered severe damage from British bombs in 1945 during World War II, and reconstruction was completed in 1990. Today, Marienberg Fortress houses two museums: the Museum für Franken, showcasing Franconian art, and the Fürstenbaumuseum, dedicated to the history of the fortress and Würzburg. Visitors can also explore the Princes' Garden, a 16th-century garden offering panoramic views. Construction work is ongoing at the main castle and inner courtyard, limiting access to individual visitors. However, the Echterhof courtyard and viewing points remain open, and guided tours are still available.

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