Freiburg

Freiburg is the capital of the Schwarzwald also known as the Black Forest. The dark-green forests come right down within a block or two of this large city. Full of character, the pedestrian-only old center was founded in 1120 and is laden with numerous quaint buildings. On Münsterplatz (main square) you find the beautiful Münster Unserer Lieben Frau (cathedral) whose tall spires crest all vistas. Inside the cathedral 14th-century sculptures depict sin and temptation. The nave’s gorgeous 14th-century stained glass was donated by the guilds and each window shows the emblem of the guild that donated it. Three very attractive buildings are found on the south side of the Münsterplatz: the Kaufhaus with its steep roof and pointed turrets, the baroque Erzbischöfliches Palais (Archbishop’s Palace), and the Haus zum Schönen Eck, which now houses the music academy. Here you also find the delightful Oberkirchs Weinstuben, a cozy wine tavern-hotel combination. Little streams run down each street between the cathedral and the Swabian gate: known as Bächle, these waterways are the city’s trademark.