Constance, University city on Lake Constance, Germany
Located on the Swiss border, this settlement spans 55 square kilometers at 395 meters elevation beside the lake. Historic buildings stand alongside modern districts, while ferry connections link the old town with surrounding communities.
Roman settlers founded a fort here in the first century. Between 1414 and 1418, church leaders and rulers gathered to end the Western Schism, during which Jan Hus was executed in 1415. The settlement became part of Baden in 1806.
The university shapes daily life with roughly 11,000 students and research facilities, while the cathedral and several theaters broaden cultural offerings. Regional traditions merge with academic exchange across the international border.
Rail connections reach Munich, Zurich and Stuttgart, while ferries operate to Mainau Island and Meersburg. The center remains pedestrian friendly, with shops, restaurants and several museums. Bicycle paths run along the waterfront and into Switzerland.
During the Second World War, authorities kept streetlights illuminated at night to appear as part of neutral Switzerland, avoiding bombardment. This strategy preserved much of the historic architecture from destruction.
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