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  • Essay / Living in Amberg - 1159

    When it comes to living in Amberg, Germany, I admit that I am somewhat biased. Those lucky enough to live in the original medieval town of Amberg “Egg” (the original town is surrounded by an egg-shaped castle wall) have the opportunity to experience the historical beauty, simplistic architecture and life. The original medieval town remains surrounded by the original double-walled fortification, four town gates, several towers, ramparts and extensive dry moats. Much of the population has resided in Amberg all their lives, occupying a house that has been in their family for many generations. . To date, the town (population: 44,737) (DATEANDTIME.INFO) and the medieval town center have managed to blend together as they have grown, with the original medieval town retaining its charm and atmosphere outdated. My goal is to share insight into the history and charm of this hidden gem, Amberg's Treasure. The medieval court town of Amberg was first mentioned in 1034 AD (Encyclopedia Britannica), at that time under the name Ammenberg and was one of the most fortified strongholds in Germany at that time. Religion influenced Amberg's history and turned in the 16th century to Lutheranism; the ruling family pushed for more radical Calvinism and failed. In 1628 AD, Amberg and the Upper Palatinate became part of the electorate of Bavaria. At that time, people had to return to Catholicism or leave the city forever. Many families fled to the cities of Regensburg and Nuremberg. Amberg was the regional capital of the Upper Palatinate from 1795 to 1810 AD, at this time the larger city of Regensburg became the capital. (Wikipedia)The River Vils flows through the center of the original old town, dividing it in two. In the beginning...... middle of paper...... the church was a monastery, now this section of the church is a school. The Church itself seems to remain untouched by modern times, resplendent and tranquil. From our apartment on Malteserplatz, we can hear church bells ringing in the distance from the Cathedral of St. George and St. Martin. During religious holidays or celebrations, priests will lead a procession of elders, Alter boys, and church members around the "egg" while chanting and singing. The view is quite spectacular with the priests dressed in flowing red robes carrying an ornately bejeweled Holy Crucifix and the altar boys swinging smoking thuribles (metal incense urns suspended from chains). Amberg is exceptional in so many ways and we are truly enjoying this incredible adventure. . There is so much to see and experience in Amberg alone. We hope that you too will one day have the opportunity to visit this treasure..