Stiftung Juliusspital (Julius Hospital), Wurzburg

Founded in 1576 by Julius Echter von Mespelbrunn, the Prince-Bishop of Würzburg, the Julius Hospital is a distinguished foundation in Germany encompassing the renowned hospital and winery. The establishment holds historical significance as it emerged on the grounds of a former Jewish cemetery, endowed with the abandoned Monastery of Sancta Vallis in Heiligenthal.

Originally conceived as a hospital, the Julius Hospital opened its doors in 1576. Beyond its medical services, the hospital initially welcomed pilgrims, individuals suffering from epilepsy, and orphaned children. The architectural ensemble of Julius Hospital reflects Baroque elegance, featuring a courtyard and a church that trace back to its inception. Notably, the northern wing, an impressive 160 meters in length, was an augmentation by Antonio Petrini in 1700–4, complemented by an extensive wine cellar beneath.

The Rococo pharmacy, a distinctive feature of v, remarkably withstood the bombing of 1945, preserving its historical charm. Adjacent to the hospital, the Alte Anatomie, constructed by Joseph Greising between 1705 and 1714, served as a hub for medical education. Renovated in 1788, it accommodated renowned medical figures like Albert von Kölliker, von Siebold, and Rudolf Virchow, instructing up to 48 students in surgery and anatomy.

The hospital's surroundings include a park utilized by patients, featuring a water basin adorned with stone dolphins and allegorical figures representing the Franconian rivers Main, Tauber, Saale, and Sinn. The park proudly displays the coat-of-arms of Johann Philipp von Greifenclau zu Vollraths, adding an aristocratic touch to the serene landscape.

With meticulous maintenance and modern amenities, including a new pipe organ installed by Orgelbau Vleugels in 2005, Juliusspital continues its legacy as a functional hospital and retirement home. Beyond its healthcare role, it boasts a notable viticultural distinction, standing as the second-largest winery in Germany and the most extensive individual German wine grower, cultivating an expansive 177 hectares of vineyards.