Journey Through Franconia

Franconia, the stretch of Germany between the Spessart and the Fichtelgebirge, is captured in this striking guide. Rich in scenery from the raw climes of low mountains to the idyllic Frankische Schweiz, from the gentle curves of the River Main to the glittering lakes of the Frankisches Seenland, and from the dense forest of the Steigerwald to the open fields of the Ochsenfurter Gau, the region is showcased here for its diverse landscape as well as its artistic and cultural monuments, telling of Franconia's turbulent past. Its impressive churches are investigated along with its magnificent pilgrimage chapels, such as those at Vierzehnheiligen and Goweinstein, depicting the legacy of a people deeply rooted in religion. The free cities of Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and many others are portrayed, still effusing a sense of civic pride through its countless castles and palaces, illustrating a thirst for representation and power. The margravial residences of Ansbach and Bayreuth, medieval strongholds on the peaks of the Frankische Schweiz, and the Schonborn dynasty's palace in Pommersfelden also grace this guide. Showcasing Franconia in all its glorious variety, this handbook also contains additional features on its culinary delights, traditional festivals, artists and architects, and the intriguing case of Kaspar Hauser.

Martin Siepmann is a freelance photographer and the author of many illustrated books on regional and international destinations. He has had his work featured in numerous books on regional and international travel as well as in magazine reports and calendars. Ulrike Ratay lives and works in Franconia. She has contributed to illustrated books on Italy, Sweden, and Greece.