Page 295 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Germany

SOUTHERN GERM AN Y  293

BADEN-

WÜRTTEMBERG

This German state, which includes territories of the former Grand
Duchy of Baden, is one of the country’s most popular tourist
destinations. Its charming old university towns, such as Tübingen
and Heidelberg, historic castles, luxurious resorts and the magnificent
recreation areas of the Schwarzwald (Black Forest) and Bodensee
(Lake Constance) guarantee enjoyable and memorable holidays.

This region’s turbulent history, which has In Heidelberg the enlightened elector
been ruled over the years by Palatinate Ruprecht I founded the first university in
electors, counts and finally kings of Germany in 1386 and shortly after this
Württemberg, as well as by margraves epoch-making event, further universities
and Grand Dukes of Baden, has given the were established in Tübingen and Freiburg
province its cultural and religious diversity. im Breisgau. Many towns and villages in
This southwestern area of Germany the region can boast a history going back
was the cradle of two great dynasties to Roman times. The Romans used to grow
that played a significant part in German vines in the area of Baden-Württemberg
and European history and culture. The and now wines from the region are
Hohenstaufen family – which originated renowned worldwide for their high quality.
from Swabia – produced kings and Baden-Württemberg, however, does not
emperors who ruled during the most only represent an illustrious past, but also
magnificent period of the German Middle an impressive present. Unemployment
Ages (1138–1254). These included figures for the region are the lowest in
Frederick I Barbarossa and Frederick II. The Germany, and many companies that are
Hohenzollern family, also from Swabia, known and respected throughout the
produced Brandenburg dukes, Prussian world – such as Bosch, Daimler, Porsche
kings including Frederick the Great and and the software company SAP – have
German emperors from 1871–1918. their production plants here.

Magnificent French-style garden in front of the palace in Ludwigsburg
Ornate façade within the walls of Heidelberg Castle

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