Enjoy the natural wonders of Erfurt
Erfurt is a city in central Germany. It is the capital of the state of Thuringia, a manufacturing centre with a population of 196,500 residents. In contrast to most other major German cities, Erfurt suffered only limited damage from allied air raids during World War II. Except some damage resulting from socialist architecture, therefore Erfurt has an original medieval city center.
The sign of Erfurt is the two churches, the Mariendom and the Severikirche, which stand directly side by side. Both churches tower above the townscape and are accessible by huge open stairs. Another remarkable site is the Krämerbrücke, a bridge passing the narrow Gera River. The bridge is covered with beautiful populated buildings. It was built in 1325 with a church on either bridgehead - one of these churches still exists.
The best time to visit Erfurt is from October to November when there are some very exciting festivals on. The Honky Tonk Pub Festival is a very jolly affair. It is a musical daytime festival, which makes its way through Erfurt's attractive pub quarter, it enjoys huge popularity. You will be able to see more than 30 live gigs, and follow at least 38 exciting different bands on a journey through the most amazing decades in the history of music, from the nostalgia of the 1920s, the temperamental rhythms of South America and the easy-going swing to the Rock'n'Roll of the Golden Fifties and even the hits of the 90s.
Another thing that shouldn't be missed is the Erfurt Christmas market. This market is the loveliest in the whole of Germany and it is the largest in Thuringia. It is usually held in the perfect medieval Cathedral Square, which gives the market a wonderful festive atmosphere. You will find traditional crafts and Thuringian specialties and also and enormous Christmas tree decorated with candles, and Christmas scenes.
Erfurt is a place rich in cultural history, which can be seen not only from the historical building but also from the warm-hearted, welcoming people.
