Freiburg

Freiburg is one of the most remarkable cities in southern Germany. Whether you're planning to explore the historical and cultural landmarks, or just spend time in one of the great restaurants and bars in the city Freiburg, it will surely satisfy and even surpass your expectations.

Freiburg is known by its name "Freiburg im Breisgau". The city is located in Baden-Württemberg. Freiburg is situated at the foot of the hill Schlossberg along the river banks of Dreisam.

As Freiburg is the most southern point of Germany, the climate of the city is one of the sunniest and friendly to locals and tourists. Frothy beer is not the only drink, which you can unwind with in Freiburg. It turns out that climatic conditions are favourable for growing grapes and making aromatic wine.

These lands house a few old traditions. According to historical sources the city was founded in the 12th century by Duke Berthold III. In translation the name of Freiburg means "free city". The village was established as a comprehensive trading venue. Thanks to its strategically important location (at the crossroads between the Mediterranean and North Sea, and between the Rhine and Danube), Freiburg quickly managed to become a developed commercial, transport and educational centre of the area im Breisgau.

Freiburg, along with Heidelberg and Tübingen, is one of the most popular university cities in southern Germany. It is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in Western Europe. Among the most famous is the Albert Ludwig University and the Academy of Music. On the campus of Albert Ludwig University is a picturesque botanical garden Arboretum Freiburg-Günterstal, which is considered one of the attractions of the city. Freiburg is home of many research centers and the institutes of Max Planck.

Undoubtedly the biggest attraction is the local medieval Freiburg Cathedral. It is considered one of the most beautiful Christian worship sites. Built shortly after the creation of the city (12th century), it initially served as a crypt, where they buried the bodies of deceased aristocrats. Today the cathedral is a center of attraction for thousands of believers. Visitors can climb the 116 foot spiral staircase and enjoy the splendid view which opens from the church tower.

In front of Temple Square is the beautiful Münsterplatz, around which are many other historical buildings, such as commercial buildings, the most famous of which is called Historisches Kaufhaus, and baroque houses with two fine fountains - Georgsbrunnen and Fischbrunnen.

The old part of town also attracts many tourists. The buildings in this part of Freiburg date from the 16th century. The facades of the old houses are really impressive. Since 2007 there is a working Tourist Information Centre.

City Hall is also very original. Built between 1896 and 1901, the Renaissance building consists of two identical buildings and a majestic tower in the middle. Over the centuries the building of City Hall has had different functions; it has even been used for a hospital.

Other sights of Freiburg are two "gates" of the city - Obertor and Martinstor, which have had strategic importance for the city over the years. The "Gates" are beautiful antique clock towers.

Unusual attractions here are also the small channels of water (Bächle), flowing calmly on the local streets. These water facilities were used for water supply for industrial use, and of course to prevent fire. Today, the channels are of interest only to guests of the city, and for kids who whirl around in them, while playing games.

30 km north of Freiburg is an amusement park - where you can ride some of the longest and fast trains on the old continent.