New Residence and Rose Garden, Bamberg (must see)

The New Residence stands as a remarkable historic building in the heart of Bamberg. It once served as the residence for the archbishops of the Bamberg ecclesiastical Principality, and today it houses the state gallery, library, and a charming rose garden nestled between its wings.

The Bamberg State Gallery showcases nearly 50 halls and rooms that span the late 17th and 18th centuries, featuring a diverse range of artistic styles. Visitors can admire art treasures spanning over four centuries, including more than 500 pieces of furniture, paintings, sculptures, and textile art. The Bamberg State Library, located in the east wing of the New Residence, occupies halls that have retained their stucco and frescoes from the former residence. The library holds a rich collection of books and manuscripts, providing a glimpse into the intellectual and cultural heritage of Bamberg.

The construction of the New Residence spanned more than a century and took place in two stages. The rear part of the residence, featuring two wings in the Renaissance style, was built under Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp von Gebzattel starting in 1602. The front part, characterized by Baroque architecture, was erected from 1697 to 1703 under the leadership of Prince-Bishop Lothar Franz von Schoenborn with the assistance of Leonard Dinzenhofer.

Initially serving as the residence of the Prince-Bishops of Bamberg until 1802, the New Residence underwent a change in ownership during secularization and became a royal residence for the Bavarian Wittelsbachs in 1803. Today, the building stands as one of Bamberg's main attractions. Its interconnected wings, crafted from sandstone, create an elongated zigzag structure adorned with architectural portals and subtle embellishments.

Between the wings of the New Residence lies a beautiful rose garden. This Baroque garden, created in the 18th century, replaced a Renaissance garden that previously stood on the site. Under the patronage of Prince-Bishop Friedrich Karl von Schönborn, the garden was meticulously designed by the talented Balthasar Neumann. The garden's symmetrical layout reflects the baroque concept of a modern garden, with carefully arranged sections that exude elegance and harmony. As summer arrives, approximately 4,500 roses burst into bloom, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Framed by majestic lime trees and accompanied by an exquisite garden pavilion, the garden becomes an enchanting symphony of baroque magnificence. To further enhance the garden's ambiance, sculptures crafted by the esteemed Bamberg court sculptor Ferdinand Tietz in 1760/61 gracefully accompany the vibrant roses, adding an extra touch of artistic grandeur.

Within the garden pavilion, a serene café awaits, providing a tranquil setting to rest and savor a refreshing drink. This inviting oasis offers a moment of respite, allowing visitors to unwind and take in the surrounding beauty.