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Würzburg Residence with the Court Gardens and Residence Square

Würzburg, Germany
01.04.2017

Würzburger Residenz und Hofgarten is a magnificent palace and garden complex located in the charming city of Würzburg, Germany. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive examples of Baroque architecture in Europe.

The Residenz was built in the 18th century as the residence of the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg. It was designed by the famous architect Balthasar Neumann, who combined elements of French and Italian Baroque styles to create a truly unique and grand structure. The exterior of the palace is adorned with intricate sculptures and detailed reliefs, while the interior boasts opulent rooms and halls, filled with beautiful frescoes, stucco work, and ornate furnishings.

Visitors to the Residenz can take a guided tour to explore the grandeur of the palace, including the Imperial Hall, which is considered one of the most stunning rooms in all of Europe. This hall was used for lavish banquets and receptions, and its ceiling is adorned with a magnificent fresco depicting the Four Continents.

Adjacent to the Residenz is the Hofgarten, a beautiful formal garden that was designed in the French style. It features manicured lawns, symmetrical flower beds, and elegant fountains, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting. The garden also offers stunning views of the Residenz and the surrounding city.

In addition to its architectural and historical significance, Würzburger Residenz und Hofgarten also has a rich cultural heritage. It has been the venue for numerous concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Overall, a visit to Würzburger Residenz und Hofgarten is a must for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply looking to experience the beauty and grandeur of this remarkable landmark. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a peaceful stroll in a stunning setting, the Residenz and Hofgarten will not disappoint.


This magnificent Baroque palace – one of the largest and most beautiful in Germany and surrounded by wonderful gardens – was created under the patronage of the prince-bishops Lothar Franz and Friedrich Carl von Schönborn. It was built and decorated in the 18th century by an international team of architects, painters (including Tiepolo), sculptors and stucco-workers, led by Balthasar Neumann.

The Würzburg Residence (German: Würzburger Residenz) is a palace in Würzburg, Germany. Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt and Maximilian von Welsch, representatives of the Austrian/Southern German Baroque style, were involved in the construction, as well as Robert de Cotte and Germain Boffrand, who were followers of the French style. Balthasar Neumann, court architect of the Bishop of Würzburg, was the principal architect of the Residence, which was commissioned by the Prince-Bishop of Würzburg Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn and his brother Friedrich Carl von Schönborn in 1720, and completed in 1744. The Venetian painter Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, assisted by his son, Domenico, painted frescoes in the building.

Interiors considered masterworks of Baroque/Rococo or Neoclassical architecture and art include the grand staircase, the chapel, and the Imperial Hall. The building was reportedly called the "largest parsonage in Europe" by Napoleon.: 52  It was heavily damaged by Allied bombing during World War II, and restoration has been in progress since 1945. Since 1981, the Residence has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its outstanding Baroque art, design, and architecture.

wikipedia.org