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Bamberg – living World Heritage Site

Mayors reveal their insider tips in the deutschland.de series “My city”. Part 20: Mayor Andreas Starke from Bamberg.

24.02.2015
Pressestelle Stadt Bamberg - Andreas Starke

Mr Starke, what is special about your city?

Bamberg has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. We are proud of such architectural highlights as the Imperial Cathedral and the New Residence, and of famous cultural ambassadors like the “Bamberg Symphony Orchestra – Bavarian State Philharmonic Orchestra” and the Villa Concordia International House of Artists. The high quality of life here has inspired people to give our city such melodious titles as “Franconian Rome” or “Dream City of the Germans”. Once you've fallen for Bamberg's charm, you'll never want to leave.

What do you see when you look out of your office window?

I look out over the central Maximiliansplatz, where we celebrate our basketball team's championship titles, hold demonstrations for tolerance and against xenophobia, and enjoy such nationally popular events as Bamberg Magic Festival or the Blues & Jazz Festival.

Where in your city do you most like to spend your time?

On (!) the “special cellar”. There I have a beautiful view of our city and enjoy Bamberg's special lifestyle. In case you were wondering, in Bamberg we really do say “on the cellar” when we go to a beer garden!

Which of your city’s personalities do you value most?

I most appreciate the many active volunteers, working in so many different fields, who make Bamberg so endearing and a place worth living in. For me they are an impressive example of the humanity, togetherness and tolerance that marks our intact urban society.

What would you like to show tourists?

I really enjoy showing Bamberg's visitors the former St. Michael's Abbey, which is celebrating its 1,000th anniversary in 2015. The building dominates the townscape and is primarily famous for its unique ceiling painting “Heaven's Garden”, with its approx. 600 pictures of herbs. Unfortunately, the Church had to be closed to the public in 2012 because of major structural problems. I hope the planned refurbishment will begin soon.

Where can visitors best get to know the people in your city?

At the many cultural events, in the taverns, or at the many merry festivals and events that enrich our city. The hearts of Bamberg's people are wide open to all those who appreciate the city's open and proud lifestyle.

And where do you most like to spend your vacations?

In the sunshine – preferably sharing sporting activities with friends, who make travelling even more wonderful.

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