Heidelberg, University city in Baden-Württemberg, Germany
This university town in Baden-Württemberg follows the course of the Neckar through a valley framed by wooded slopes. The old town sits close to the water on one side while forested hills rise steeply behind, creating a layered arrangement between river, buildings, and green ridges.
The settlement received town rights in 1196 and became home to the first university in what is now Germany in 1386. French forces destroyed much of the town during the War of the Palatinate Succession at the end of the 17th century, and the reconstruction that followed shaped the layout visitors see today.
Students shape the city atmosphere on warm days when they gather along the riverbanks and fill the narrow streets with conversation and movement. Local residents walk the Philosophers' Way on the opposite hillside almost daily, using it as a quiet retreat above the town where they can watch the light change over the rooftops.
The old town is easy to explore on foot while the climb up to the ruins can be done either on steep steps or by taking the funicular. Visiting during weekday mornings means fewer crowds, especially in the narrow lanes around the market square where groups tend to gather later in the day.
A small brass plaque featuring a monkey sits at the bridge gate of the Old Bridge, and visitors touch its mirror finger for luck. The same sculpture includes two tiny mice competing for the attention of anyone who notices the detail, a playful addition that most people walk past without seeing.
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