Bayern (as we call it in German) or Bavaria is the autonomous state in South Germany and also prides itself on being the largest state in the country. It takes up the entire south-eastern part of the nation setting out to explore the whole new world! The state shares its outskirts with Austria and Czech Republic along with Switzerland, which is crosswise the Lake of Constance. Facts and figures say that the state is the second most populous state where the density in the state capital – Munich happens to be the third largest city in Germany.
The state has the euphonious mixture of classic and contemporary. With the crisp natural environment, fresh and lively air, medieval castles and little towns and baroque churches, picture-perfect countryside with urban centers and lifestyle complement each other. The setting is flawless for both folk festivals as well as opera. The place proves to be the intriguing holiday destination for the people who are looking for tranquility and get in the arms of nature. The shimmering lakes, national parks- mainly being the Bavarian Forest National Park, enigmatic forests, and sun-soaked vineyards, not to mention the spectacular peaks and contrasting wide valleys and vibrant landscapes will make one completely overzealous.
Bavaria is the land of inspiration and passion. It’s one of the popular tourist destinations where the country’s most beautiful scenery is spotted. History states that the state was established by 555 AD, which gives the modern Bavaria the touch of the ancient buildings and rich heritage. Ironically, the south of the state which is connected to Austria and Switzerland share the cultural connections more than the rest of Germany. The state has lots and lot to offer to a tourist to explore such as the natural beauty, culture, traditions, heritage, and peace.
Location
The place is the home for steep mountains, large plateaus, and beautiful valleys. It is set in the south-eastern part of the country- Germany, which covers one-fifth part of the country. The federal state is happened to be the largest one in the country. The state shares its borders with the countries of the Czech Republic, Austria, and Switzerland. Since the countries mentioned are the parts of an area that is Schengen, the border is thoroughly disclosed. The main rivers that freely flow around are the Danube (Donau) and the Main.
The landscape of the region is divided into four regions which are the Alps which has the highest mountain in Germany at 2962 meters, the Alpine foothills which have infinite lakes placed all over, The eastern Bavarian mountains which have the first ever National Park in the country and lastly, the Swabian-Franconian cuesta landscape. The Bohemian Forest and the Bavarian forest dominate the land with its beauty and place and forms bulky perimeter with the Czech Republic and Bohemia. The capital of this federal state- Munich is the third populous city in Germany. Other important cities in the state include Nuremberg, Augsburg, Regensburg, Wurzburg, Ingolstadt Furth and Erlangen.
Weather
The state has beautiful climate throughout the year. It is placed in the continental climate zone with a particular climate that includes all from summer heat to bone-chilling winter covered with snow. Spring and autumn come along the way with their natural magic canvassing the place with alluring wildflowers or gold foliage. Nonetheless, every season comes with its beautiful charm for people to enjoy the place at any time, any day of the year. Make sure to have the rain gears in handy as the downpour is unusual and unexpected.
The climate in summers, which is the large part ranging from May to September- the mildly hot air blows throughout with crystal clear skies just like their flags which are a tuning of blue and whitewashing all over the place. This type of weather has the perfect setting for hiking, biking, water sports, camping or going to carnivals, strolling around parks and catching up with friends. The ordinary temperature throughout the day is about 20-30 degrees Celsius, which may take a chill and fall to 8 degrees at night. Whereas, the Winters are quite chilly with dense clouds. The perfect atmosphere to stroll around the city and towns and also skiing and snowboarding is the best parts. The temperature throughout fluctuates between 3 to -1 degrees Celsius.
History
The state stretches from its primary settlement and structure as a duchy in the 6th century AD over the Holy Roman Empire to converting into an independent kingdom to lastly converting into a state of the Federal Republic of Germany.
The Bavarians loomed in the north of the Alps who used to speak Old High German differing from other Germanic groups. They presumably did not migrate from elsewhere but seemed to have mingled out of other groups left behind by the Roman withdrawal at the end of 5th century. The Bavarian name meaning- the Baia men who may hint Bohemia, is the home of Celtic Boii and next of Marcomanni. The place was then ruled by Agilofling from 554 to 788 AD.
In the 17th century AD, the Holy Roman Empire got a Prince-elector, who was the Duke Of Bavaria. The Kingdom of Bavaria then remained alive from 1806 to 1918. After that, the state became democratic in 1946.
The state
The state has diversities in its culture and tradition and surprises us with its vibrant and friendly atmosphere. Few features of the state stand out from the rest of the Germany making its uniqueness a definite attraction. The state manages to hold the culture and tradition of Roman Catholic faith whereas the modern part show diversity in religion with both Catholic and Protestant traditions. Half of the state is abided by the Roman Catholicism while the other half adheres to other religions.
The Bavarians pride of their customs and traditions and they are the epitomai of genuineness. The age old traditions are happily lived and widely celebrated by the modern day people and enjoyed with high spirits. They are the proudest of all Germans keeping up with their authenticity and devoted to their roots and cultures. They consider themselves Bavarians first and Germans second.
The land of sunshine apt a great value on food and drink. The world famous dishes and unusual delicacies are served best in the state. The drink part is mainly connected with the folk festivals and beer gardens where beer is traditionally served on liter basis. Speaking of which, the German stereotype of beer drinking and eating sausages and Lederhosen can be seen in the rural part of the state. Bavaria is also a homeland for Franconia wine region, the old wine production running for over 1000 years. The wine production is bowed the essential element of the culture in the area and most villages celebrate the wine festival throughout the year.
Travelling in the state
Traveling in the state is quite comfortable and problem-free with plenty of options available to choose from. One can get a direct flight for Munich and travel along the state on tracks or rails. The long distance trains are excellent options as they connect two major cities and also for their reliability and efficiency. If one wants to visit the countryside to enjoy the picture like sceneries and experience the place in depth, traveling through cars and buses is the best option. Also, getting on foot with camera in your hands and start experiencing the countryside will be a fascinating experience!
Major attractions
The whole state itself is the major attraction to start exploring. The numerous picturesque villages, ancient cultural heritages and also modern cities like Munich, Nuremberg, etc. It is the perfect destination to plan a family holiday as it can be enjoyed by both the generations equally. There are also breathtaking palaces, ornamental Baroque churches, monasteries and noteworthy castles. The world famous attraction- King Ludwig II’s Neuschwanstein Castle and equally famous church known as Wieskieche, which is a pilgrimage church, The Roman limes, Wurzburg, Bamberg and Regensburg are the UNESCO-listed ensembles, quite a gem to the nation. You may not believe, but there are 100,000 architectural monuments, 1200 museums and 40 first class places for theaters and operas in Bavaria alone.
The state is rich with many mountain peaks, valleys, ancient figures and gift of Mother Nature. It is a dream place for everyone. Besides its picture books like scenery and cultural attractions, the place offers a complete package of a combination of outdoor family places to enjoy and explore throughout the year, authentic traditions, modern cities and urban centers, food and drink and travelling for business as well.
What else around?
- Bavarian Alps are along with the highest peak in Germany.
- Bavarian Forest and National Park – Germany’s first ever national park with dark and mysterious beauty.
- Ammeresee – a beautiful
- Franconian Lake District
- Romantic Road is a road having region past romantic castles and villages.
- Schloss Neuschwanstein is an alluring romantic castle.
- Füssen – is a small town wealthy in culture and art.