Freiburg-a significant city in western Germany

Freiburg im Breisgau is a German city located near the border with France and Switzerland in the state of Baden-Württemberg. It has a population of more than 230,000. It is often confused with the slightly smaller Freiburg in Switzerland.

The city is the historic capital of the Bryzgow region. It was founded in 1120. In the Middle Ages it was a significant trading center, and after the Reformation it was also one of the major bastions of the Catholic faith. For centuries it was ruled by the Habsburg dynasty. During World War II, Freiburg was significantly damaged during air raids, but after reconstruction it still impresses with its atmosphere, its colorful townhouses and charming squares. It is said to be the warmest and sunniest city in all of Germany.

Old town and Münsterplatz

Freiburg's old town is not very extensive - it is quietly suitable for exploring on one's own feet. The main place there is the Münsterplatz at which the 13th-century Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary is located. This temple is considered one of the most beautiful in Germany. It was the only one of the city's monuments to survive the bombing of World War II. Its tall tower is visible from practically every point in Freiburg, and its impressive interiors with a beautiful Gothic chancel, vault, pulpit or numerous sculptures attract attention and make you stop at least for a moment. It is worth climbing the tower, from which, in good weather, you can see the Kaiserstuhl mountain ranges or even the French Vosges.

A market is held on Münsterplatz every day except Sundays. While strolling through the old town, it's also worth looking underfoot for the beautiful mosaics on the sidewalks.

The Freight House

Dating back to 1532, this building with a distinctive red façade topped with colorful turrets at the corners is located on the market square, right near Freiburg Cathedral. Inside, the most noteworthy feature is the Kaiseraal - a hall with a richly decorated vaulted ceiling and portraits of Habsburg rulers. It once housed a customs warehouse, and since the 20th century the city government has resided there.

Bächle

Under this name are small open canals flowing along the streets of Freiburg's old town, fed by water from the nearby Dreisam River. They were once used to irrigate the city's gardens and to assist firefighters in putting out fires - today they are a reminder of those days and an interesting tourist attraction.

Schwabentor (Swabian Gate)

The Swabian Gate was the only entrance to the walled city until the 16th century. It was built at the beginning of the 13th century, with the tower on top erected at the end of the 16th century. In 1901, the gate was raised to allow streetcars to pass through.

Castle Hill

Schlossberg is a tree-covered hill in the Freiburg area that is 456 meters high and part of the Black Forest. Its name derives from the castle that once stood at the top of the hill, but was demolished in the 16th century. Nowadays, the Schlossberg mainly offers beautiful views of Freiburg and is a frequent destination for walks. The hill can be reached by a funicular railroad. There is a 35-meter-high tower (Schlossbergturm) with three viewing platforms. Its structure consists of six tree trunks evenly surrounding a steel staircase. To reach the highest terrace, one has to climb 153 spiral stairs.