We have just returned to Bagni di Lucca from a visit to Bavaria in southern Germany to stay with friends for Christmas. Because of covid restrictions it was mostly a quiet time at home but we did manage a couple of short visits to nearby Nuremberg.
Nuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria after Munich. It has a population of around 520,000 people. Its huge castle, with stunning towers, dominates the skyline.
The high walls offer dramatic entrances to the historical part of the city. We entered the one opposite the railway station to find a small market. Covid prevented the Christmas markets from going ahead, but the city still managed to look festive and inviting.
Weisserbergasse is the oldest street in Nuremberg. It is lined with exquisite half timber traditional German houses.
Crossing one of the bridges over the Pegnitz River we spotted the Helig-Geist-Spital, Holy Spirit Hospital. It was built in 1339 and is now a restaurant and senior home.
The view from the other bridge was just as spectacular.
It was necessary to eat bratwurst with mustard on a bread roll often in Bavaria.
I love the decorated buildings in Bavaria and Nuremberg has its share.
We had been hoping for snow, but we got a mixture of blue sky, drizzle and clouds. Despite the lack of snow,Nuremberg looked beautiful in its winter coat.
Travelling is a bit complicated now. We have to show a green pass to use public transport, get into many shops and restaurants. We are triple vaccinated so that is no problem. We had to get a covid test to enter Germany and to return to Italy. Who would have thought covid would still be interrupting our lives after almost 2 years?