Nuremberg

After our car finally arrived in Germany in September we attempted to get it registered, but it was deemed unsafe to drive when we sent it to emissions, so we braved public transit and took the train to nearby Nuremberg rather than risk taking the car anywhere.  The train ride was great minus my usual motion sickness.  We spent the night in a hotel in old town and spent the weekend just walking around and exploring the city.  

Crossing the Pegnitz River that runs along the middle of the city.

The Ehekarussel Brunnen, a fountain depicting six interpretations of marriage based on a verse by the medieval poet, Hans Sachs.  I haven't read the poem, but I get the feeling that he has a very varied take on marriage. 

 

The Schoner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain).  According to tourist legend, if you spin the gold ring on the outer gate of the fountain three times you will be blessed with good luck.

A view of the grounds of the Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle).  The Imperial Castle played an important role in Holy Roman History.  In 1356 the castle in Nuremberg was deemed the location where every newly elected ruler was to hold his first Imperial Diet, thus solidifying its importance in the empire during that time. Over time the castle lost its importance as rulers began to break with tradition and the Imperial Diet was eventually permanently relocated to Regensburg.

Inside the Kaiserburg.

The Imperial Chapel inside the Kaiserburg.

A replica of the crown jewels.

Some pieces of medieval armor.

After our tour of the Kaiserburg we intended to tour the Nazi Rally Grounds, which is located in a different area of town.  Because we were confined to public transit, we took the train, but we just couldn't seem to find the rally grounds. As it would have it, a Volkfest was going on that same weekend near the rally grounds, so we cut our losses and toured the Volkfest instead!

Our first exposure to German festival food.

Just about anything pickled in a barrel.

Smoked fish.  I'm not sure how you eat this?  

Some strange candy ropes.  I have yet to try this, but it looks fascinating.