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Fürstenbaumuseum: A Glimpse into Princely Life

Explore the opulent world of Würzburg's Prince-Bishops and uncover centuries of captivating history within the walls of the imposing Marienberg Fortress at the Fürstenbaumuseum.

4.5

Housed within the imposing Marienberg Fortress, the Fürstenbaumuseum offers a fascinating journey into the lives of Würzburg's Prince-Bishops and the city's rich history. Explore meticulously restored living quarters adorned with period furnishings, exquisite tapestries, and captivating artwork from the Renaissance to the Baroque periods. Delve into the city's past through detailed exhibits showcasing its evolution from the early Middle Ages to the aftermath of World War II. Don't miss the intricate models depicting Würzburg in 1525 and the stark devastation of 1945, offering poignant reflections on the city's resilience. While currently undergoing renovations, the museum remains a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of Würzburg's cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Fürstenbaumuseum

Local tips

  • Check the Museum für Franken website for current opening hours and any temporary exhibit closures due to ongoing renovations at Festung Marienberg.
  • Allow ample time to explore both the Fürstenbaumuseum and the Museum für Franken, as both offer extensive collections and insights into the region's history and art.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the fortress grounds involve walking on uneven surfaces and inclines.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Würzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station) or the city center (e.g., Residenz, Juliuspromenade), take bus line 9 towards 'Festung Marienberg' (available from April to October). The bus will drop you off at the 'Schönborntor' stop, a short walk from the fortress entrance. A single bus fare is approximately €2.60.

  • Walking

    From the Alte Mainbrücke (Old Main Bridge), a scenic, albeit steep, 20-25 minute walk leads up to Festung Marienberg via the Tellsteige path. Alternatively, a less steep route is available via the Schlossgasse, though it still involves a considerable incline. Follow signs for Festung Marienberg.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow signs for 'Festung Marienberg'. The road 'Oberer Burgweg' leads directly to the fortress. Limited paid parking is available on the fortress grounds, costing approximately €3.00 for 24 hours. Parking is managed via a barrier system; take a ticket upon entry and pay at the machine before leaving.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Würzburg city center to Festung Marienberg will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic.

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The Fürstenbaumuseum, nestled within the formidable Marienberg Fortress overlooking Würzburg, provides an intimate look into the lives and legacies of the Prince-Bishops who once held sway over this historic city. As part of the Museum für Franken, the Fürstenbaumuseum occupies the eastern wing of the fortress, known as the Fürstenbau (Prince's Building). Its origins trace back to a 1938 museal presentation, which was unfortunately short-lived due to the onset of World War II. The museum, in its current form, was inaugurated on October 11, 1990, and has since become a significant cultural attraction. The museum's exhibits are spread across two primary floors. The first floor showcases the lavishly appointed living quarters of the Prince-Bishops, offering a glimpse into their daily lives and the opulent surroundings they inhabited. Visitors can wander through rooms filled with period furniture, exquisite paintings, and intricate tapestries, all reflecting the artistic tastes and cultural influences of the Renaissance and Baroque eras. Highlights include the Fürstensaal (Princes' Hall), formerly the armorial hall, adorned with the Echter family tapestry, and various exhibition rooms displaying treasures from the Prince-Bishops' treasury and vestment chamber. The second floor is dedicated to the city's history, chronicling Würzburg's evolution from the early and high Middle Ages to the tumultuous years of 1945. The exhibits delve into specific aspects of the city's past, such as its coinage and medals, the history of the fortress itself, the Biedermeier era's domestic culture, and the influential Prince-Bishops who shaped Würzburg's destiny. A highlight of this section is the display of two large-scale city models. One meticulously crafted wooden model depicts Würzburg as it appeared around 1525, a testament to the city's medieval grandeur. The second model presents a sobering view of the city after the devastating bombing raid of March 16, 1945, offering a stark reminder of the war's impact. The Marienberg Fortress itself boasts a rich and layered history, with evidence of settlement dating back to around 1000 BC when a Celtic refuge castle stood on the site. The core of the fortress is the Marienkirche, consecrated in 706 AD, making it the earliest sacred building east of the Rhine. The castle was founded in 1201, with the Bergfried (keep) dating from this period. From 1253 to 1719, it served as the residence of the Würzburg Prince-Bishops. Around 1600, the main castle, surrounded by its medieval fortifications, was transformed into a Renaissance palace. The Echterbastei and the Brunnenhaus (well house), considered one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Franconia, date from this era. Following its conquest by the Swedes in 1631 during the Thirty Years' War, the fortress was expanded into a Baroque stronghold, and the Fürstengarten (Prince's Garden) was created. This garden, meticulously planted in the summer, offers stunning views of the city. The baroque Zeughaus (armory) now houses the Museum für Franken, showcasing an exceptional collection of Franconian art, including world-renowned sculptures by Tilman Riemenschneider. Also noteworthy are the prehistoric section, exhibits on Franconian folklore and wine culture, and impressive garden sculptures from the Veitshöchheim Rococo Garden. Currently, the Marienberg Fortress is undergoing extensive renovations and a comprehensive redesign, expected to continue until 2026. While the fortress restaurants are closed, a kiosk remains open for refreshments. Despite the ongoing work, the Fürstenbaumuseum remains accessible and continues to offer a captivating glimpse into Würzburg's past. Visitors can also explore the outer areas of the fortress, including the Fürstengarten, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding vineyards. The Fürstenbaumuseum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it is a portal into the lives, times, and legacies of those who shaped Würzburg. From the opulent living quarters of the Prince-Bishops to the poignant reminders of the city's wartime devastation, the museum offers a multifaceted perspective on Würzburg's rich and complex history. A visit to the Fürstenbaumuseum is an enriching experience for anyone seeking to understand the cultural and historical significance of this Franconian gem.

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