Empire of Giants in Nuremberg
Modern metalcore band Empire of Giants live in the historic city of Nuremberg.
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Nuremberg Imperial Castle
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The Imperial Castle in Nuremberg is one of Europe's most significant castle complexes and served as a crucial residence for all emperors of the Holy Roman Empire between 1050 and 1571. The ensemble comprises the Imperial Castle, the Burggrave's Castle, and the Municipal Buildings, all perched on a prominent sandstone rock overlooking Nuremberg's old town. Historically, the Golden Bull of 1356 was of immense importance, decreeing that every newly elected king must hold his first Imperial Diet in Nuremberg. Architectural highlights include the Romanesque double chapel from the 12th century and the 47-meter-deep 'Deep Well,' which ensured the fortress's water supply. Following severe destruction during World War II, the castle was faithfully reconstructed to preserve its status as a national monument. Today, the facility houses the Imperial Castle Museum, providing deep insights into medieval military technology and the history of the Imperial City.
- Location: Bavaria, Germany
- Top sights: Walburgiskapelle · Finanzstadel · Freiung
- Nearby: Fürth (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 19 | 14 | 9 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 58 | 44 | 48 | 39 | 76 | 69 | 77 | 72 | 55 | 52 | 57 | 60 |
📋 Practical info
Address
Auf der Burg 17, 90403 Nürnberg
Hours
Mon-Sun 09:00-18:00
Entry
€7.00 adults, under 18 free
Website
Transit
Subway U1 to Lorenzkirche or bus 36 to Burgstraße
Parking
Parking garage Hauptmarkt, 10 min walk, approx. €3.00/hr
Accessibility
Steep paths and cobblestones, limited accessibility.
Photos
Private photos without flash/tripod allowed.
Best time
Late afternoon for the view over the city in the evening light.
Audio guide
yes, in several languages
Geography
Facts
- First documentary mention of the complex dates back to 1050.
- Served as a residence for German emperors for nearly 500 years.
- The 'Deep Well' is carved exactly 47 meters into the rock.
- The Sinwell Tower provides a panoramic view over all of Nuremberg.
- The Golden Bull of 1356 required every new emperor to hold court here.
- Reconstruction after World War II took approximately 30 years.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Nuremberg Imperial Castle (10)
Sinwellturm
Tower of Nuremberg Imperial Castle, built in the 13th century.
Kaiserburg-Museum🏛 museum
Museum in Nuremberg Imperial Castle, covering the castle's history and the Holy Roman Empire.
ND-Turm
Defensive tower of Nuremberg's city walls, part of the historic fortifications.
Fembohaus🏛 museum
Museum in Nuremberg, city museum housed in a Renaissance building.
Historischer Kunstbunker🏛 museum
Bunker in Nuremberg, used as an art storage facility during World War II.
Raum für zeitgenössische Kunst
Gallery for contemporary art in Nuremberg, with changing exhibitions.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the Imperial Castle?
It was one of the most important imperial palaces of the Holy Roman Empire, where every emperor was required to reside at least once.
Can you visit the deep well?
Yes, the 'Tiefer Brunnen' is over 50 meters deep. During tours, a burning candle is often lowered to demonstrate the depth.
Does the castle offer a good view?
From the Sinwell Tower or the Freiung, you have a fantastic panoramic view over the entire Nuremberg old town.
Is the castle garden free?
Yes, the castle garden is accessible to visitors free of charge, although it is usually closed during the winter months.
How long do you need for a visit?
You should plan about 2 to 3 hours to visit the museum, the well, and the garden.
Nuremberg Imperial Castle: where is it located?
Nuremberg Imperial Castle is located in Bavaria, Germany.
Nuremberg Imperial Castle: what is there to see?
Highlights include Walburgiskapelle, Finanzstadel, Freiung.
Nuremberg Imperial Castle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Nuremberg Imperial Castle: why is it worth visiting?
The Imperial Castle in Nuremberg is one of Europe's most significant castle complexes and served as a crucial residence for all emperors of the Holy Roman Empire between 1050 and 1571.
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