Augsburg

The Monday after we arrived here was a national holiday: Epiphany, or Day of the Magi. Consequently, Nate had the day off. We took the opportunity to explore Augsburg a little. First we ended up briefly at a cathedral that was holding an Epiphany service. Then we headed over to Augsburg's Rathaus (Town Hall) to view the Goldener Saal (Golden Hall) on the top floor. It was certainly an impressive sight to see.

The hall is an important piece of work from the German Renaissance, although the hall as it currently stands is a replica of the original based on drawings and photographs. That is because the original was destroyed during World War II.

Unfortunately, I forgot to bring my nice camera with me to Augsburg, so all I had to use was an ipod camera for these pictures. Luckily, they didn't turn out too badly.

There are four Fürstenzimmer (Prince's Rooms), located in each corner of the hall. Only two had been restored to their original forms though with replicated paintings and tables.


After seeing the Golden Saal and the Rathous, we headed to the Maximillianmuseum. Here we found an abundance of mostly miniature things. I was facinated by the smaller versions of sculptures and altarpieces that were done as studies in preparation for the full sized versions.

There were also miniatures of various buildings, mills, and other structures from around the city that had been made as plans for the actual things.

There were also some children's toys, including some very detailed doll house rooms, along with coins and some other things. It was pretty interesting.