Heidelberg Old Town: A Scenic Spot Worth Slowing Down to Appreciate
Heidelberg Old Town, weathered by centuries of wind and rain, exudes a unique charm and romantic atmosphere.
When traveling to Heidelberg, don't visit attractions or check-in places, just wander aimlessly around the old town – that's the essence of travel!
The market square is the central square of the old town, paved with cobblestones, with the town hall and the St. on either side. From the Middle Ages, it has been the most central place in Heidelberg's Old Town. It's also the most crowded place for tourists, with many souvenir shops selling tourist products. This shop hasn't gradually gathered over time; it was originally planned as a stall when the square was designed, so it has the same long history as the square. We need to quietly tell you that the travel souvenirs here, such as fridge magnets and postcards, are relatively cheaper because as we go further, prices tend to rise. So if you need anything or see something cute, don't hesitate to buy it.
Knight's House was built in 1592 by Charles. Bellier, a German textile merchant, to specialize in Chinese silk and satin. Later, Knight's House became a private residence, and in 1705 it was converted into a hotel and still operates today. It is Heidelberg's oldest building, built during the Renaissance period, with a history of more than 400 years, which is 198 years older than the Old Bridge. It is called 'Knight's House' because of the knight statue above the main entrance.
The Jesus Church is located on the east side of University Square and was built between 1712 and 1750. The facade of the church is made of red bricks, and inside, it extensively uses white, like a white fairytale dream. Abandoning the repeated carvings and stained glass decorations of the Middle Ages, it only uses white, clean and pure.
You must also take a walk across the Old Bridge, which is as old as the old town. This Baroque stone bridge was built in 1788 and is the ninth bridge built in the same location since the Roman era. It is also the oldest bridge in the Heidelberg area across the Neckar River. There are sculptures on both ends of the bridge - on the south end is the elector who built the bridge, and on the north end is the goddess of wisdom. There is also a great view from the bridge, overlooking the castle. What attracts me most is its current atmosphere and youthful spirit. Street musicians playing the violin, children listening to music in their parents' arms, pigeons resting on the bridge, and couples cuddling and watching the scenery – this is the living old town!
At the south end of the Old Bridge is the Copper Monkey, which is a very famous landmark of the Old Bridge. It symbolizes greed, desire and vanity, indirectly criticizing the 'toll' of crossing the bridge. The monkey's left hand mirror and left foot ring symbolize vanity, its buttocks symbolize ugliness, and its right hand finger blocks people's evil eyes. Now, it has also become a popular check-in spot for tourists around the world.
When you get tired, you must enjoy a German sausage and roast pork in the elegant restaurants of the old town, and experience the romantic charm of this German old town.
