If Bamberg packs most of its greatest wonders and curiosities into a tiny area, believe us, there are plenty more gems just a little further out that deserve your attention. Take the Böttingerhaus right here, for example. Who would have guessed that tucked away on this charming street hides one of Bamberg’s—and even southern Germany’s—most stunning Baroque houses? Not many, we bet, but no need to shout about it. Back in the early 1700s, Johann Ignaz Böttinger, private councillor to the prince-bishop, built this palace on the site of two old medieval houses. Born a commoner but rising high in status and wealth, Böttinger made sure his new home perfectly showcased his social climb. The architect—whose name remains a mystery—drew inspiration from Italian palaces to bring the vision to life. The site was tight, sloped, and poorly lit, making construction tricky, but the challenge was met head-on. The result? So impressive that the wealthy neighbors were green with envy. Inside, the decor is just as carefully crafted as the striking street façade: grand staircases, richly furnished rooms, a well-kept courtyard, and more. But here’s a surprise—there are no corridors, and the staircase to the bedrooms opens directly onto the courtyard, which means it gets really chilly in winter. The Böttingerhaus changed hands for the first time in 1785, passed through various owners, and around 1900 was sold off in several parts. Since 1992, it’s been home to an art gallery—so you could say the story has come full circle for this true artistic masterpiece.