Pfalz

In the heart of Forchheim, Bavaria, stands the majestic Pfalz, also known locally as Burg Forchheim. This historical gem, dating back to the late 14th century, was once a pivotal city castle for the Bishops of Bamberg. Today, it serves as a captivating museum complex, inviting visitors to delve into its rich and multifaceted history.

The History of Pfalz

The Pfalz's origins are deeply rooted in the medieval era. From the 9th to the early 11th century, a Frankish royal court and a palatinate existed in Forchheim, although the exact location remains a mystery. By the late 14th century, the Bishops of Bamberg, particularly Bishop Lamprecht von Brunn, established the city castle, which became their primary residence outside the Bamberg Cathedral immunity. This transformation marked the beginning of the Pfalz's illustrious history.

Extensive archaeological and architectural studies have revealed that the Pfalz is one of the best-researched complexes of its time in Central Europe. Despite the absence of early medieval settlement remains, the castle's historical significance remains undiminished. The term Kaiserpfalz (Imperial Palace) has been retained and is now the official name for the castle.

Architectural Marvels of the Pfalz

The Pfalz is an architectural masterpiece, featuring a nearly square layout surrounded by moats. Until around 1550, it was integrated into the city's fortifications. The northern part of the castle complex boasts the Saltorturm, the only remaining medieval city gate. In the 16th century, a modern bastion fortification, inspired by Italian designs, was constructed in front of the medieval city wall remnants. Two large casemated old Italian bastions to the north and west of the castle district survived the demolition of many fortifications in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The main building and courtyard structures, dating back to the 14th century, form the core of the castle. The eastern main building is connected to the western courtyard buildings by walls and half-timbered walkways. The upper floors of the northwest wing are simple half-timbered constructions facing the castle courtyard. In the mid-16th century, the city castle underwent renovations, resulting in the picturesque half-timbered walkways over the connecting walls. An octagonal stair tower was added to the four-story main building in 1603, and the imposing hipped roof dates back to the 18th century. Originally, the eastern wing was topped with a gabled roof. Since 1768/69, a sandstone bridge spans the moat in front of the south gate, replacing the previous drawbridge. A rectangular Renaissance bay window with a shed roof adds to the architectural charm. The otherwise austere south façade is enlivened by the visible half-timbering above the gate, featuring a typical Franconian motif of numerous small, curved St. Andrew's crosses below the window zone.

Exploring the Interior

The Pfalz's interior is equally fascinating. The eastern main building is divided into two parts by a continuous transverse wall, with the northern part being slightly larger. The barrel-vaulted cellars date back to the 14th century, and the ceilings of the ground floor halls are supported by sandstone pillars. The flat ceiling of the northern room rests on a round pillar and a wooden beam, while the southern part was later vaulted, creating a two-aisled hall with cross vaults. Fragments of Seccomalereien (paintings on dry plaster) from around 1400, stylistically influenced by contemporary Bohemian art, adorn the hall walls. These paintings, including a depiction of King David, are among the most significant Gothic wall paintings in southern Germany.

The first floor's southern part originally housed the chapel. The vaults were removed in the early modern period, and the hall was divided by a partition wall. The wall paintings of the former sacred space, depicting prophets, the Adoration of the Magi, and the Last Judgment, remain largely intact, reflecting the room's original function and layout. Two secular-themed paintings, interpreted by H. Kehrer as references to the weak King Wenceslas, also survive. The paintings were created by various masters, with the Adoration of the Magi drawing inspiration from Bohemian art and the Last Judgment representing the latest Forchheim style, transitioning to early 15th-century Nuremberg painting. The northern hall is similarly flat-ceilinged, with a wooden support.

The second northern upper floor features a two-aisled, flat-ceilinged hall with a wooden central support, adorned with architectural paintings by Jakob Ziegler from 1559/60. The southern room is also a two-aisled hall, with a flat ceiling supported by an octagonal central pillar. The wall paintings, depicting various themes, were also created by Jakob Ziegler, including a depiction of Saints Henry and Cunigunde with a model of Bamberg Cathedral (dated 1599, south wall).

The third floor, originally designed as a storage and warehouse space, now serves as a museum depot. The old stair tower houses a stone spiral staircase leading to the north part of the eastern wing.

The Pfalz Museum

Today, the Pfalz houses the Pfalzmuseum in its eastern wing, featuring three specialized museums: the Archaeological Museum of Upper Franconia, the Forchheim City Museum, and the Franconian Switzerland Costume Museum. Each museum offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage, making the Pfalz a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

In conclusion, the Pfalz in Forchheim is not just a historic monument; it is a testament to the region's vibrant past and enduring legacy. Its walls echo with stories of medieval bishops, architectural evolution, and artistic achievements, making it an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting Bavaria. Whether you are an avid history buff or simply looking to explore a beautiful and historically rich site, the Pfalz promises a captivating and enriching experience.