Jena
Jena is a fascinating combination of rich historical and intellectual background, attractive landscapes, innovative productions and turbulent student life. These differences create a unique atmosphere, giving the small but bustling city a special charm and brilliance.
The 100-thousand member city is located in central Germany. It is situated around the banks of the river Saale.
The town was founded in the 11th century. Much of the medieval buildings of Jena, however, were destroyed by air raids during World War II. Some of them have been recovered.
Among the most popular attractions is the building of Jena Hall, whose foundations were laid early 13th century. One of the most interesting highlights of the building is the old astronomical clock.
Gothic church Michaelskirche, built more than five centuries ago, is also frequently visited place by tourists. They laid the body of the German priest and professor of theology, Martin Luther there.
Perhaps the most popular resident of Jena is the German poet, philosopher, historian and playwright John Christoph Friedrich von Schiller. His native home is the hijack haunt.
One of the emblems of the city is the skyscraper Jen-Tower. The 159-meter silver building was erected in 1972 from the top of the tower are splendid views of the city. Jen-Tower is the highest facility in Eastern Europe and the third tallest building in Germany.
In Jena is a well-preserved palace called "The Old Castle", which is composed of several delightful towers, the most famous of which is "gunpowder tower", dating from 13-14 century. On the outskirts of town are two other fascinating castles - Dornburg Castles and Kapellendorf Moated Castle.
In Jena is a unique botanical garden with nearly five centuries of history. It is one of the oldest in Germany and Western Europe. In it you can see some fantastic plant specimens.
Jena is often called the "paradise of students". Friedrich Schiller University was built in the late 17th century. Over the years, this educational institution was able to win the glory of one of the most respected universities in Europe. In the 18th century, the university has become a center of attraction for the most famous professors, philosophers and writers. Today in the educational institution annually train about 26, 000 people. One of the main squares of Jena is the magnificent statue of the founder of the University, Friedrich I.
Today the campus is a favorite spot for many tourists and students not only because of its excellent living conditions, but also for great nightlife, sporting events and facilities, culinary delights and shopping centers.
Jena is a city with highly developed manufacturing in nanotechnology, pharmaceuticals, optics and photographic equipment. The German city is one of the fastest in the country prosperous. Many companies and research centers are concentrated there. Not by accident in 2008 received the prestigious Jena calling "Research Capital" of Germany.
One of the biggest attractions is the local Jena Planetarium, which is considered to be the first such facility in the modern world. Created in 1926
In Jena is the interesting Museum of optics, where you can explore a number of optical instruments, lenses, telescopes, microscopes and cameras. The museum has followed in detail the development of this technology. There you can test your own vision and to explore the three-dimensional holograms. The museum has recreated the work room of one of the pioneers in the field of optics - Carl Zeiss that in the 19th century already produced prototypes of today's cutting-edge technology magnification. Access fee is 5 euros.
More than anything else, students, tourists and entrepreneurs enjoy a merry life among the many cafes, restaurants and cozy German pubs, which are most concentrated in the old part of town.
