Bamberg has always been associated with my family; growing up, "Oma Bamberg" was synonymous with my paternal grandmother. Another old German town, Bamberg hasn't been forgotten by time, like Rothenburg was, so it's much easier to see the juxtaposition of old and new (though the old part of town still retains much of its old character and charm.)

Bamberg's claim to fame is its proximity to the Rhein-Main-Donau canal, which (as the name suggests) connects the Rhein, Main, and Donau (Danube) rivers. Here, waterfront properties on the Main offer riverside views, and boat landings.

"Little Vienna"

Painted City Hall

Just like Oberamergau, it's traditional to ornately paint the buildings in Bamberg. In this picture, only the windows of the Bamberg Rathaus are dimensional; all other features are painted on....

...well, not all the features. The entire cherub (shown here) and the leg of another cherub (picture above, at bottom of the building) are actually three-dimensional sculptings.

Cherubic Whimsy

St. Michael's Cathederal Overlooks the City

Signs of industry in the foreground sit in perfect harmony with buildings several centuries old, including the St. Michael's Dom (Cathederal) resting atop a nearby hill. This is typical of Bamberg, fusing old with new.

With our family history in and around Bamberg, it was only natural that the reunion should happen here as well. The entire clan found accomodations in a pension near the old town. Somehow, I had scored the "penthouse" suite with this gorgeous view of the city. (Actually, though, I think it was because the bug that had plagued me since Murnau had gotten to the point that my coughing was keeping everybody up, and they had to put me as far away as possible!)

Bamberg Skyline

Grounds of Schloss Seehof

Near Bamberg is one of many palacial estates, the Schloss Seehoff. With expansive grounds, elaborate statuary, and exquisite fountains, it's a throw-back to a different, more elaborate time.

Only slightly farther away, the ruins of the castle Giechburg cling to a hilly promontory. But even the carcass of an old castle finds a new use; portions of it have been restored, and it now serves as a fine restaurant and pension.

The Ruins of Giechburg

Bamberg Skyline at dusk

As the sun descends in the west, St. Michaels reaches to the darkening heavens...