Marburg

The university town of Marburg, with its history, its historic quarter between the Lahn River, the Church of St. Elizabeth and its castle, the university flair and the rustic surrounds, make it an attraction for visitors from Germany and the world over.

Founded in 1527, the Philipps-University is the heart of Marburg, which now as in the past is best characterised by the saying: Other cities have a university, Marburg is a university!

The current population of Marburg is around 80,000. This includes approximately 25,000 students from all over the world. The University’s students and facilities for 17 departments in around 300 buildings sprinkled throughout the town define the life of the town. Known for its openness and tolerance, the town provides countless scope for individual expression while remaining manageable as a whole. The convenience, urban lifestyle, cultural variety and openness of the town of Marburg and its university provide international guests with an ideal introduction to life in Germany.

Marburg is a town of contrasts: the distinctive buildings of its painstakingly restored historic town are complemented by postmodern architecture, proving that Marburg combines the riches of the past with the needs of the present.

Begin your stroll through the university town by exploring the nooks and crannies of the steep and narrow alleys in the traditional medieval charm of the historic section of the town in the vicinity of the town hall and market place. Evidence of the town’s history abound and beckon to be explored. Soak up the sense of enchantment that permeates the town by following the trail of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm: it was here that they began collecting traditional fairytales at the outset of the 19^th century.

Marburg is a town steeped in history. Above all, it is the town of St. Elizabeth of Hungary. Built between 1235 and 1283, the Church of St. Elizabeth and its golden Elizabeth shrine is an outstanding example of Early Gothic architecture. You can gain an initial impression of this architectural masterpiece in this virtual tour of the Church of St. Elizabeth.

In addition to the twin Gothic towers of the Church of St. Elizabeth, the silhouette of the town is dominated by the Landgrave Castle towering above Marburg’s historic old town. It was here that Luther and Zwingli met in 1529 at the famous Marburg Colloquy, where they disputed the significance of the Eucharist.

Climb the hill to the castle. It was Jacob Grimm who said: “I believe there are more steps in the streets than in the houses”. After a long ascent and many steps you will be rewarded with a magnificent view over the town roofs and the Lahn valley.

And of course, a relaxing stroll through the historic town will turn up countless cafésand pubs. What’s more, there are enticing shopping opportunities nestled within the ambience of the historic buildings: surprise yourself as you explore its boutiques, galleries, second hand bookshops and antique stores.

Comprehensive information about Marburg’s places of interest can be found on the town’s online portal. Here you can also download the Marburg-Audioguide. A Marburg webcam are also available.