Coming from the United States, it always seems a little strange to me that cities such as Augsburg have been around for so much longer
than America. About 1,800 years, in fact, making it the oldest city in Bavaria.
Founded in 15 B.C. by the Romans, Augsburg was the seat of the provincial government of the Roman Empire. The military arteries that were established eventually turned into trade routes, which attracted merchants and bankers and was the start of the city’s prosperity.
Among the more famous of these merchant families were the Fuggers, who implemented one of the first social housing enclaves for impoverished families. Amazingly, this tradition continues today with housing available to the needy for, wait for it, $.88 per year! You can tour this community, which is understandably quite popular.
Augsburg became a Free Imperial City during the 13th century. Since then, many notable figures of history have either lived or visited
here, including Leopold Mozart, father of the famed composer. The Mozart Museum has a nice self-guided tour along with some rare artifacts from the family collection.
Augsburg is a town of short walks with pedestrian-friendly streets making it easy for visitors to shop, dine or sightsee. Meandering
streets and lanes give way to open plazas where locals congregate to enjoy a coffee, snack or meal. The people of Augsburg are friendly
and helpful and most speak at least some English making it easy for Americans to feel at home in this great historical city.
Where to stay:
The Romantik Hotel Augsburger Hof is a nice mid-range priced hotel located within steps of the Mozart Museum and a short walk to the downtown area. Rooms are more traditional in style, cozy and warm. They offer free Wi-Fi and a free breakfast.
By Ron Stern, Photojournalist