As you walk through this town in Northern Bavaria, you take in the rich atmosphere. Forchheim is assumed to be in existence since around 600. That is a lot of history to offer.
In the Medieval Era the Franconian Kings utilized the town as a court. As a matter of fact, up until around the 13th century, there were many German kings crowned here. Nobles and clergy held meetings here as well.
Known as the Nuremberg Gate, this Medieval Fortress will allow you to visualize the way things were during the 30 Years’ War. Thanks to this fortress, the Swedish forces never captured Forchheim.
Located on the main street you will find cafes and shops. This vibrant area will offer a great selection of keepsakes. At the beginning of the main street is the Town Hall Place, Rathausplatz. This location holds many festivals and other gatherings. Also included is the tourist information board (Fremdenverkehrsamt) and the mayor’s office.
The well-known Kaiserpfalz castle, meaning Emperor’s Palatinate, is mostly famous for the oldest mural paintings in Franconia. There are plans of developing this area to become a museum district. For anyone interested in art, make sure you put this on your “must see” list.
Also included in Forchheim is St. Katharina’s Hospital. Once used for taking care of the poor, this pristine building is now used for Geriatric housing.
Depending on when you choose to visit this town, there are many festivals and celebrations. Annafest is probably the most widely known of all the festivals. Held annually around St. Anna’s Day, July 26th, the festival is located at Kellerwald. It can easily be confused with Kellerwald in Hesse, so assure that you have the correct place if researching. The festival lasts for 10 days and entertains close to 500,000 visitors per year.
If you are unable to visit during the festival, you can still visit the four main breweries that supply the ‘strong beer’ right in Forchheim.
