Heidelberg combines the best of many worlds. Its historic old town transports visitors immediately back into the Middle Ages with its narrow lanes and ancient buildings. Flanked by hills and lush forests, there is plenty to tempt nature-lovers. The gateway to Heidelberg’s medieval core is the unmistakable Old Bridge with its two towers, known also by its official name, the Karl Theodor Bridge. This landmark’s nine sandstone arches straddle the Neckar River, whose banks or Neckarwiese attract both locals and tourists alike to while away time.

Landmark castle

Overlooking the Neckar and forested hills are the majestic ruins of the Heidelberg Castle. It is thought that the oldest part of this edifice was built in 1400 when what was originally a fort was extended to build a castle. Over the next two centuries, the castle underwent further expansion in both medieval and renaissance styles, until it was sacked and destroyed by the French at the end of the seventeenth century during war. Karl Theodor, the Prince Elector, rebuilt the palace at the end of the eighteenth century but lightning shortly afterwards destroyed the buildings. The ruins have since inspired many a poem and song and were especially popular with the German Romantic literary movement of the nineteenth century.

Contemporary highlights

Let’s not forget how much Heidelberg has to offer the modern-day visitor, including an enviable cultural palette, ranging from theater and music to film festivals, and even its own beers. Thanks to the presence of many international companies in the region and quality research faculties belonging to Germany’s oldest university, Heidelberg is a magnet for cosmopolitan individuals from multicultural backgrounds.

Scientific hub of excellence

Last but not least, Heidelberg is very much a modern city, which prides itself on being at the cutting edge of scientific research. The DKFZ is located in Neuenheimer Feld, an area to the town’s west. This site also hosts the science faculties of Heidelberg University, as well as the University hospital and other research departments. Nearby is a thriving
biotechnology hub, known as the Technology Park. This is home to more than 70 biotech firms, which, no doubt, benefit from being so close to the corridors of top-quality scientific institutes.

And all this in a town with a population of nearly 140,000, more than 20 per cent of whom are students. You do the math and don’t just take it from us – come and see for yourself.