A Franconian Bamberg

By books, Bamberg is a typical Franconian city in Germany. It has been called a medieval version of Rome, because the city sits atop seven hills which flank the Regnitz River; a perfect place to live under protection. But it is not a "by-the-books" city by any means. Famous for their well-known and unique "Smoky Beer", and a beer capital of Franconia, Bamberg was definitely a fun city to be in. My love for architecture was alive, as Bamberg has a great mix of architectural styles. 

The Old City Hall, which straddles a bridge.

Bamberg's "Little Venice" and a line of half-timbered houses.

Beautiful flower in the gardens of the Bishop's Palace.

View of the city from the gardens of the Bishops Palace. Love those red roofs!

I loved the Rococo painted details on this building!

The Bamberg Dom-- a Romanesque and Gothic styled Cathedral.

And that's Bamberg! I caught a cold my brother had, and the day we were in Bamberg was the first day it was really bad, so I really don't remember much aside from the pictures I took. I'd love to return someday, preferably when I'm not in the fog of a cold!

--Caroline 

Prague: The 100-Spire City

Prague was the first stop on our trip, and going into it I had absolutely no expectations. I had never really learned anything about Prague, and the Czech in general was not necessarily on my "must visit" list. But man, oh man, were my expectations exceeded! 

I absolutely loved Prague!

They call Prague the "100 Spire City" because of the mass amounts of church steeple spires seen in the skyline. They have far more than 100, and the view on a hill over the city is incredible. What is a little sad though is something our tour guide said: that 80% of the population of Prague is atheist, due to the communist regime, so there is only a small percentage of the population who actually enjoy the majestic churches in the city. 

I could go on about Prague for forever, but instead I'll share some of my favorite pictures from our time there...

My dad & brother enjoying Czech beer. It was my brothers first glass ever!

  

View of the Cathedral of St. Vitus & Prague Castle from Charles Bridge.

I loved seeing the Cathedral of St. Vitus because all my art history 

classes came to life. Look at those flying buttresses!

Love locks on the bridge overlooking Prague's own "Little Venice".

Mom & dad looking all cute with love locks & "Little Venice" in the background.

View from the gardens of the Royal Palace.

I definitely want to return to Prague sometime in the future, and I hope I've inspired you to go as well!

--Caroline