Freiburg: The Sun-Kissed Jewel of the Black Forest

• HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [auf vee-der-zay-en]
• YesJa
  [ya]
• NoNein
  [nine]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bi-te]
• Thank youDanke
  [dahn-kuh]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-di-gung]
• How are you?Wie geht es Ihnen?
  [vee geht es een-en]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [goot. oond deer]
• Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-khen zee eng-lish]
• I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-shtay-eh nikht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch würde gerne die Speisekarte sehen, bitte
  [ikh vur-de gair-ne dee shpi-ze-kar-te zay-en, bi-te]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh es-se kine fli-sh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahlen
  [ikh muhrk-te bi-te tza-len]

• Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-feh]
• Go away!Geh weg!
  [gay vegg]
• Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee po-lee-tsai]
• Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee i-nen artsht]
• I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh hah-bee mikh fer-eert]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh bin krank]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möchte ... kaufen
  [ikh muhrk-te ... kow-fen]
• I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh shou-e noor]
• How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel kos-tet es]
• That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tso toi-er]
• Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [ker-nen zee den prees zeng-ken]

• What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpet ist es]
• It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
• Half past (10)Halb elf
  [halb elf]
• MorningMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahk-mit-tahk]
• EveningAbend
  [ah-bend]
• YesterdayGestern
  [geh-stern]
• TodayHeute
  [hoy-teh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• 1Eins
  [iyns]
• 2Zwei
  [tsvai]
• 3Drei
  [dry]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [foonf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeks]
• 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8Acht
  [ahkht]
• 9Neun
  [noyn]
• 10Zehn
  [tsayn]

• Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo ist iyn/dehr]
• What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vas ist dee ah-dres-seh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [ker-nen zee meer tsay-gen (ouf dehr kar-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [van kommt dehr nayk-steh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ...)
  [i-ne fahr-kar-te (nahkh ...)]

Freiburg im Breisgau was founded in 1120 by Duke Konrad of Zähringen. The city was established as a free market town, which is reflected in its name—'Frei' meaning 'free' and 'Burg' meaning 'fortified town'. The founding marked the beginning of Freiburg’s long history as a center of commerce and trade in the region.

During the 13th and 14th centuries, Freiburg experienced significant growth and prosperity. This period saw the construction of the Freiburg Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral that remains one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Completed in 1330, the Minster's towering spire and intricate architecture are a testament to the city’s medieval wealth and craftsmanship.

Founded in 1457 by Archduke Albert VI of Austria, the University of Freiburg is one of Germany’s oldest and most renowned institutions of higher learning. Over the centuries, it has produced numerous notable alumni and has been a center for intellectual and academic excellence. The university continues to play a central role in the cultural and educational life of Freiburg.

In the early 16th century, Freiburg was caught up in the tumult of the Peasants' War (1524-1525). This widespread uprising saw local peasants and farmers revolt against feudal oppression and demand economic and social reforms. The conflict had a profound impact on the region, leading to significant social and political changes.

The Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) was a devastating conflict that affected much of Europe, including Freiburg. The city changed hands multiple times between various warring factions, including the Habsburgs and the French. Freiburg's strategic location made it a frequent target, leading to significant destruction and hardship for its inhabitants.

After the ravages of the Thirty Years' War, Freiburg underwent a period of reconstruction in the Baroque style. Many of the city’s buildings and structures were rebuilt during this time, adding to the architectural diversity of Freiburg. The Baroque influence is still visible in many of the city’s historic buildings and landmarks.

In the early 19th century, Freiburg became part of the Grand Duchy of Baden following the territorial reorganizations brought about by the Napoleonic Wars. This period saw significant political and social changes, as the city adapted to its new status within the Grand Duchy. The era also brought about modernization and development in various aspects of urban life.

Freiburg, like many German cities, suffered extensive damage during World War II. Allied bombing raids in 1944 destroyed large parts of the city, including many historic buildings. After the war, Freiburg underwent a significant rebuilding process, successfully blending modern architecture with historical restoration to preserve its unique character and heritage.

In recent decades, Freiburg has gained international recognition for its commitment to environmental sustainability and green living. The city has implemented numerous initiatives to promote renewable energy, public transportation, and eco-friendly urban planning. Freiburg’s dedication to sustainability has made it a model for cities around the world and has earned it the nickname 'Green City.'

Freiburg is accessible via several modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, located approximately 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus, train, or rent a car to reach Freiburg. The city is also well-connected by the Deutsche Bahn railway network, with direct trains from major cities like Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin. If you prefer to drive, Freiburg is easily accessible via the A5 motorway.

Freiburg boasts an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains. The Regio-Verkehrsverbund Freiburg (RVF) operates the public transport network, and tickets can be purchased at machines, kiosks, or via mobile apps. Biking is also very popular, and the city has extensive bike lanes and rental options. Taxis are available but are more expensive compared to public transport. For exploring the surrounding Black Forest, renting a car is a convenient option.

Germany uses the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in Freiburg, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, some smaller establishments and markets may only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry some Euros with you. ATMs are widely available throughout the city for cash withdrawals.

Freiburg is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other city, it is important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas such as the main train station and popular tourist spots. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Neighborhoods like Weingarten and Landwasser have slightly higher crime rates, so exercise caution if you find yourself in these areas.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Freiburg has several hospitals and clinics, including the University Medical Center Freiburg, which offers comprehensive medical care. Pharmacies (Apotheken) are plentiful and can provide over-the-counter medications and health advice.

Fashion: Do dress smart-casually, especially when dining out. Avoid overly casual attire in finer establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Flammkuchen and Black Forest Cake. Don't rush through your meal; dining is a leisurely activity in Germany.

To experience Freiburg like a local, visit the weekly farmers' market at Münsterplatz for fresh produce and regional specialties. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Dreisam River. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the historic Altstadt (Old Town) and its many charming alleys and squares. For a unique experience, hike up to Schlossberg for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Black Forest.