Why Visit Würzburg for Its Spectacular Residenz Palace

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The churches in Wurzburg are just a part of the amazing architecture you’ll find in the city. Another big highlight is the Wurzburg Residence Palace, which is surely worth a visit and definitely a reason to visit Wurzburg.

Imagine stepping into a building that’s basically a masterpiece.

The Wurzburg Residence Palace is a stunning Baroque building that’s recognized by UNESCO as one of the largest and most beautiful palaces in Germany. Built in the 18th century by some of the best architects and craftsmen from around the world, led by Balthasar Neumann, it’s truly a sight to behold.

Spanning nearly 15 hectares, the palace has two main attractions: the palace itself and the promenade. The palace has two floors, each filled with incredible things to see. For anyone who loves to explore, it’s a dream come true. The ceilings and walls are works of art themselves, covered in stuccos and frescoes that make for an overwhelming visual experience.

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Wurzburg Residence Palace, Wurzburg, Germany
Wurzburg Residence Palace
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Before taking you through some parts of the Wurzburg Residence Palace that I think are especially cool… Please note: I can’t share pictures of the inside because photos aren’t allowed (commercially). However, the videos below will give you a good idea of what to expect when you visit the palace.

Among the amazing parts of the Wurzburg Residence Palace, the court church really stands out. In my opinion, it’s even more beautiful than the Kappele Sanctuary.

With its curved walls and three oval dome vaults, the court church is one of the most impressive religious buildings in Germany, built in the 18th century. Designed by Balthasar Neumann, the chapel is full of artistic details that decorate every corner.

Here are some of the highlights you’ll want to check out when you visit the Court Church of the Wurzburg Residence Palace:

  • The ceiling frescoes painted by Rudolph Byss and his students, recreated after the war.
  • The stucco decorations and figures made by Antonio Bossi.
  • The marble sculptures of St. Kilian and Burkard next to the high altar, created by Johann Wolfgang van der Auwera.
  • The two side altar paintings, “The Fall of the Angels” and “The Assumption,” painted by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo in 1752.

The Court Church isn’t the only part of the Wurzburg Residence Palace worth checking out—the vestibule is also a must-see. It’s filled with neoclassical decorations and artwork, making it a great spot for memorable photos and adding even more value to your trip.

Here are four key features you’ll want to notice in the Vestibule of Wurzburg Palace:

  • Shallow Vault — A remarkable engineering feat, it spans the entire area without support. It was designed with enough space to turn a coach in the large hall.
  • Stuccowork — Stunning artwork created by Ludovico Bossi.
  • Trompe l’oeil Grisaille Paintings —Painted by Franz Anton Ermeltraut, these depict the labors of Hercules.
  • Marble Statues — Beautiful statues of Minerva and Bellona by Johann Peter Wagner are placed in the niches on the south wall.

The Garden Hall is another stunning part of the Wurzburg Residence Palace that’s sure to impress. Its beauty comes from its light, airy feel, thanks to the design by Balthasar Neumann.

The charm of the Garden Hall is enhanced by the stucco decoration created by Antonio Bossi, featuring soft blue motifs on a white background. This combination gives the space a dreamy, heavenly vibe.

So, what can you see in the Garden Hall? One standout piece is the ceiling painting by Johann Zick from 1750, which shows “The Banquet of the Gods” and “Diana in Repose.”

You’ll also find an ambulatory decorated with scenes of putti—artistic representations of chubby, often angelic children.

The Staircase at the Wurzburg Residence Palace is a major highlight of the ground floor, along with the palace’s chapel. It’s definitely something you don’t want to miss! The staircase is designed in a stunning Baroque bifurcated style, and just walking up it and taking in your surroundings makes you feel like royalty.

But the real showstopper is the fresco above the staircase: “Apollo and the Four Continents.” Fun fact: with over 600 m² of surface area, it’s the largest fresco in the world. Now, that’s impressive!

This massive artwork was painted by the talented Venetian artist Giambattista Tiepolo, with help from his son, Domenico. The fresco depicts the four continents known at the time—America, Europe, Africa, and Asia—and beautifully shows the sun’s journey around the world. At the center, Apollo, the sun god, is surrounded by the rising sun.

What’s especially interesting is how the fresco places Würzburg and its rulers at the heart of the world, reflecting the self-image of the prince-bishop who commissioned it, as well as the Eurocentric perspective of the era.

The staircase leads to the second level of the palace, where you’ll find:

  • White Hall
  • Imperial Hall
  • Southern Imperial Apartments
  • Memorial room
  • Documentation room
  • Tuscany Rooms
  • Northern Imperial Apartments
  • State Gallery
  • Ingelheim Rooms
  • Princes’ Hall

I think the Imperial Hall and the Imperial Apartments are the best spots to check out on the second level of Wurzburg Residence Palace, but honestly, every room is stunning in its own way!

The grandeur of Wurzburg Residence Palace doesn’t stop at the grand staircase—it only gets more impressive as you explore deeper into the palace.

As you head up to the second floor, you’re immediately greeted by the Imperial Hall, the highlight of the palace. This room shows off ultimate luxury, with three stunning ceiling frescoes by Giambattista Tiepolo.

When you step into the Imperial Hall, your eyes are instantly drawn to the 20 impressive half-columns, each towering 9 meters high. Covered in detailed stucco marble, these columns form a huge oval dome, showcasing the palace’s amazing architecture.

Under the dome, you’ll find life-sized stucco figures of Greek gods by Antonio Bossi. Neptune, Juno, Flora, and Apollo stand watch, adding to the hall’s grandeur.

Your attention then shifts to the doors, where the art of Giovanni Domenico comes to life. His Sopraporta paintings tell stories of ancient emperors, full of rich detail. And the spectacle continues on the walls, which are covered in golden stucco artwork that leaves a lasting impression.

Next to the grand hall are the southern and northern royal apartments, which showcase the grandeur of German Baroque palaces. Stretching over 160 meters, they create one massive, luxurious suite filled with some of the world’s finest furniture.

The Royal Apartments have 10 rooms, and in my opinion, the Mirror Cabinet, or Room #9, is the most impressive.

The Wurzburg Mirror Cabinet has walls made entirely of glass panels, decorated with carvings, porcelain, and stucco work.

While their value can’t be measured in simple terms, the room’s decor is incredibly significant. It was considered the most important part of the Würzburg Residence, especially during the rule of Prince-Bishop Friedrich Carl von Schönborn.

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If you’re planning a trip to Wurzburg, don’t forget to check out other attractions like the vineyards, cellars, and the Marienberg Fortress, which offers great views of the city. There’s so much more to see in Wurzburg besides the amazing Residenz Palace!

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