Augsburg

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Augsburg, Germany

Augsburg's cityscape developed over two millennia and was shaped by all the great stylistic epochs. The Renaissance in particular flourished here and Rococo became known as the Augsburg style. Great buildings, monumental fountains, lavishly laid-out streets and ultramodern architecture attest to the city's cosmopolitan bounty. Feel the overwhelming beauty of the Renaissance, which is still very much alive in the majestic architecture of the monumental Rathaus, an imposing Renaissance masterpiece built 1615 - 20 by Elias Holl as an expression of the Free Imperial City's civic pride. Adjacent is the Perlachturm, the tower from which one enjoys an impressive panoramic view of the city's architectural gems. The magnificent Augustusbrunnen fountain was erected in honour of the Roman Emperor from whom the city derives its name. It is only one of many Renaissance fountains which survive intact. Maximilian Street, framed by the historic facades of stately patrician homes, attests to the city's affluence in the days of the famous Fugger and Welser merchant dynasties. The Fuggerei, built by Jacob Fugger the Rich, banker to kings and emperors, is the world's oldest social settlement for the poor. Even today its residents pay an annual rent of less than a dollar. Of Augsburg's numerous glorious religious edifices, the Dom with five windows of the oldest figured stained glass in Germany.