Bad Staffelstein, Spa town in Upper Franconia, Bavaria, Germany
Bad Staffelstein is a spa town in the Lichtenfels district of Upper Franconia that extends along the Main River northeast of Bamberg and features thermal springs as well as wellness facilities. The town sits at an elevation of 269 meters and connects a historic old town with modern spa facilities in the Bad Staffelstein spa district.
The settlement received its first written mention around the year 800 when Countess Blitrud donated her land in Staffelstein to the Abbey of Fulda. In 1929 Staffelstein merged with surrounding communities and later received the prefix Bad because of its thermal springs.
The Basilica of Vierzehnheiligen draws pilgrims who gather in a festively decorated interior with gilded altars and ceiling frescoes. This baroque pilgrimage church forms a widely visible landmark above the Main valley together with the opposite Banz Abbey.
The central railway station connects the old town with the spa district and provides visitors and residents access to the different parts of town. The surroundings are suitable for walks along the river and excursions to the nearby hills with churches and monasteries.
The town's coat of arms displays Saint George, reflecting its historical connection to the Bamberg cathedral chapter and its original patron saint. The place has carried this symbol for centuries, even though it is now mainly known as a spa and wellness destination.
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