Marburg, Its History, & Fairytale Culture

An adventure through a medieval town packed with epic history and a direct link to a bit of well known German literature   . . . 

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It was early one December morning that I rolled into the town of Marburg by rail. I was to spend the day in search of historic locations, wondrous architecture, and epic tales.
​Here is what happened. 

Into the Land of German Tales

​If you arrive by train like I did, then one of the first awe-inspiring locations you may encounter will probably be St Elizabeth's Church. This 13th century Gothic structure was actually built on the site of Elizabeth of Hungary's tomb. If you think that the outside looks amazing, just wait until you see that interior. 

St Elizabet's Church

Just across the street from that massive church you will find the site that was once home to the Hospital of the Teutonic Order. The ruins you see in the photo below are from the hospital chapel that once stood there. Search this area closely enough and you may also find a memorial to Nobel Prize winning physiologist Emil Von Behring. 

Teutonic Hospital Chapel Ruins

As I began to make my way up the hill along Steinweg Street into the heart of it all, I passed by many interesting sights. Marburg is actually the town where the Brothers Grimm got their start in the art of folklore, and as you wander these fairytale streets there are hints to this legacy spread about. There are many other interesting display along the path as well. You may notice quirky public dinking fountains too. Search around the Old Town Marktplatz, and you may even find the statue of Duchess Sophie Von Brabant withe her son Henry. 

Statues around Town

If you go south of the Old Town Square, you may just find yourself at the Old University which was founded in the 1500s. Over the ages this academic establishment has produced many of the notable scholars of the region, and is still going strong today. 

Old University of Marburg

Now it is time to proceed on up the hill to explore the mighty castle that has witness countless ages of Marburg's enduring development. Be ready for it, as there are multiple paths to take, and each with an assortment of sights and city views to keep your camera well occupied. 

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Landgrafen Schloss

Situated at the top of the hill, this stronghold was originally constructed in the 11th century to serve as a fortress before being converted into the royal residence. Over the ages it would grow bigger and bigger into what you now see. Today this marvelous work of architecture functions as a museum showcasing the history of the area. 

Landgrafen Palace

Inside the palace you will be treated to a history of the area with displays of artifacts, oil paintings, all within a decor that will leave you speechless. One of the first rooms I visited was the Prince's Hall which is still used today for special events. If you think that is amazing, then the brightly colored chapel will really impress you, as it features a fresco of St Christopher facing the altar. 

Landgrafen Interior

Another item of interest I found within the castle walls was a set of models displaying the evolution of construction on these grounds throughout the ages as this structure would gradually progress from fort to palace. 

It is somewhat of a long walk up the hill to visit Landgrafen Schloss, so I hope you are wearing comfortable shoes. Depending on the path you chose there may be places to relax along the way, and you are guaranteed to find amazing photo opportunities around every corner. 

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Christmas Market Wonderland

Did I mention I was Christmas time during my visit to Marburg? The town was definitely packed with Holiday cheer, but I found most of it to be centered around The Old Town Square and St Elizabeth's Church. It was at these lively Christmas Markets that I enjoyed in the festivities with a tasty bratwurst and steamy hot mug of that gluhwein to boost my spirit. 

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Best way to get around?
​RailEurope

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Thanks for joining me!
If you enjoyed this tale, you can also follow along in my video too.