Amberg

Amberg preserves an almost complete circuit of medieval defences and late medieval and Baroque churches. The town developed as the Oberpfalz (eastern) seat of the so-called Palatine elector-counts and the old and new palaces remain.

The icon of the town is the fortification spanning the river Vils between the palace and armoury, known as the Stadtbrille (‘city spectacles’, an effect created by the reflection of its arches in the still waters below).

The late Gothic town hall has Renaissance panelled interiors. The electoral history and Renaissance council table are in the surprising Stadtmuseum. The churches of St Martin and St Georg and the pilgrimage church Mariahilfkirche on the hill above the town are worthy of a visit.