Heidelberg is a charming city located in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwestern Germany. It is renowned for its Heidelberg Castle, which sits atop a hill offering a scenic view of the city, rich history, and natural surroundings. The city is surrounded by the Odenwald forest and the Neckar River, providing visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
One of the main attractions in Heidelberg is the Old Town, which is home to many historic buildings, such as the Church of the Holy Spirit, the Heiliggeistkirche, and the Karl Theodor Bridge. The Old Town is also filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a perfect place to stroll around and take in the sights and sounds of the city. The Heidelberg University, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany, is also a popular attraction. The Heidelberg Castle is a must-see for visitors to the city; it offers views over the city and visitors can tour the castle's various rooms and exhibits, including the Great Vat, an enormous wine barrel that holds over 200,000 litres of wine. Visitors can also take in the Neckar River and the surrounding Odenwald forest through boat trips, hiking, or biking. The city also hosts many cultural events, like the Heidelberger Frühling music festival, the Castle illumination in summer, the Christmas market, and the wine festival, which is held every September, which are all must-see events for visitors to the city. Heidelberg is sure to capture the hearts of all who visit.
Join us on a journey through Heidelberg as we look closely at its cultural and historical destinations. From the grandeur of the Heidelberg Castle to the Old Town streets, we will explore each location in-depth and highlight the must-see sights and experiences. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, our in-depth guide will help you make the most of your visit to this city.
FIRST DISCOVERY OF HEIDELBERG MAN
The discovery of the "Heidelberg Man" (Homo heidelbergensis) was made in 1907 at a quarry near Heidelberg, Germany. The remains of this early human were found in a sandstone layer of the Mauer quarry near the city of Heidelberg. It was later identified by German palaeontologist Otto Schoetensack as belonging to a new human species, now known as Homo heidelbergensis.
This discovery was important in the field of palaeoanthropology as it provided evidence of the existence of an intermediate species between Homo erectus and Homo neanderthalensis. The Heidelberg Man has been considered a possible ancestor of both Neandertals and modern humans.
Today, visitors to Heidelberg can learn about the discovery of the Heidelberg Man at the Heidelberg University's Museum of Anthropology. The skull and other fossils discovered at the quarry are on display at the museum, along with other artifacts and information about the history of human evolution.
HEIDELBERG AND THE REFORMATION: THE INFLUENCE OF MARTIN LUTHER
Martin Luther is an important historical figure known for translating the New Testament from Greek into German and shaping the German language. Many travelers visit "Luther Country" in Germany to follow his pathway and learn about the foundation of the Protestant religion. Heidelberg was a significant city during the Reformation, and the influence of Martin Luther can still be seen there today.
The city was the center of the Reformation in Germany, and it was home to one of the most important universities in the country during the 16th century. Luther's teachings were embraced by many in Heidelberg, and his ideas spread quickly through the city and the surrounding region. Today, visitors to Heidelberg can see many buildings and monuments connected to the Reformation and to Martin Luther, including the Heidelberg Castle, the Church of the Holy Spirit, and the Old University. There are also several museums and historical sites in the city that focus on the history of the Reformation and its impact on Heidelberg and the surrounding area.