The Old Court

Take the cathedral, add the New Residence, complete the ensemble with the Alte Hofhaltung, and you get the spiritual and temporal heart of Bamberg’s former bishopric. Built on the site of an old fortress, the Alte Hofhaltung is a vast historical complex where the prince-bishops once lived before moving into their new home just across the square. From chancellery to library to council hall, the buildings have served many purposes over the centuries before becoming today the city’s historical museum. The entrance is marked by the “Beautiful Gate,” created by the sculptor Pankras Wagner. In relief, he portrayed the Mother of God, Saints Peter and George, Emperor Henry II and his wife Cunegonde, as well as the Main and Regnitz rivers. Nothing could be more typical of Bamberg than this whole ensemble. And if you feel like it, and if it happens to be open when you pass by, you can walk through the gateway to explore the inner courtyard beyond. In an instant, you’ll find yourself in a peaceful enclave framed by half-timbered buildings, a romantic setting that could have easily served as a filming location for certain scenes of The Three Musketeers. This is also where the Calderon Festival takes place every July. Created in 1973 to mark Bamberg’s millennium, this event, which blends theatre and open-air performances, has become a highlight of the cultural calendar. And since we are already here, let’s talk about Bamberg’s Historical Museum, arguably the most important in the city. It sheds light on the major cultural and artistic moments of Bamberg and Upper Franconia across all eras. The remarkably diverse collection includes detailed models of German basilicas, old stone sculptures unearthed in the region, and even a full art gallery. Carefully curated temporary exhibitions add further insights into your destination and its surroundings. More than just a visit, the Historical Museum of Bamberg shares timeless stories and deeply enriches your discovery of the city.