The central European country of Germany has had a long complicated history. In fact, there wasn’t a country called Germany until 1871 when most of Europe’s German-speaking territories unified under the Prussian crown. Prior to that, Germany consisted of dozens of micro-states, each with their own ruler, under the control of the Holy Roman Emperor of some German confederation. Honestly, it’s super messy and confusing. The current borders of Germany were not finalized until 1991. With the fall of Communism, East and West Germany were once again one country.
Jana Irving Würzburg Residenz was severely damaged in March 1945 due to firebombing and restored.
Ravaged by WWII bombing, many of Germany’s cities had to be rebuilt after the war. Some cities look a bit modern, with a bit of historical buildings thrown in, while others have been rebuilt to look like they did before the war. Other cities, miraculously survived the war.
Germany is chock full of old medieval cities, castles, museums (including the modern ones), grand palaces, bratwurst and so much more. Also, Bavarian food is delicious.
Places To Go
Check out where I have been in Germany and other places I haven’t been to but look awesome (maroon color). Click on the links for posts for the places I’ve been! (I know there is a lot of maroon on there. I’m working on it.)
A Few Travel Tips
Germany is not as expensive to Americans than one would think. USD holders, rejoice.
Grocery stores are super cheap. You can find water, snacks and even full hot meals in some.
Trains are a bit more expensive than in Southern Europe, but you can schedule lay overs between two cities and save on day trips!
Many train stations have inexpensive luggage lockers.
Reserve a seat on a long distance train, so you don’t have to move a bunch of times.
Unlike most of Europe, in Germany you have to wait for crosswalk signals. It’s infuriating at times.
