Bavaria, Germany – The World’s Oldest and Biggest Accomplishments

Bavaria is a paradise for world travelers. Located in the southern region of Germany, Bavaria is quite diverse. From story-book castles to the scenic Alps and fertile Danube plain. But Bavaria not only has several beautiful and famous sites but also holds numerous world records through its 2,000-year history. The region is proud to claim many of the world’s oldest and largest accomplishments.

The largest state in Germany is more than beer, pretzels and lederhosen. It offers stunning landscapes and amazing cities that exude a cultural distinction. Visitors will find beautiful and rugged mountain scenery. Plus, food lovers will discover magical, culinary flavors suit all palates. In addition, one can celebrate countless ancient customs to this day.

Discover intriguing stories about times past. Bavaria’s has a remarkable history. With these stories, impressive and unique historic accomplishments become apparent. For example, learn about the determination, creativity and strength of Bavaria and its people as a culture and lifestyle. Yet, there is more just below the surface. Bavaria is proud to boast several world records. Below are just a few of them.

World Records

1) Oldest Social Housing: Augsburg is Bavaria’s third largest city and by far the oldest with over 2,000 years of history. Its impressive stream and canal system earned the city on the Romantic Road the coveted title of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Augsburg’s most famous son is Jakob Fugger. 500 years ago, the richest man in the world. With his “Fuggerei“, he created a unique monument to charity. In 1521, he signed the charter for the construction of a housing estate in which Augsburg citizens in need, could receive dignified accommodation. Hence, creating the first official social housing in the world. To this day, it still remains the oldest of its kind.

2) Largest Cathedral Organ: Located in the city of Passau, the organ inside St. Steven’s Cathedral is the largest organ in the world. There are 17,974 pipes and 233 registers. Therefore, international travelers need to visit the “City of Three Rivers” and see the amazing cathedral organ. Also, between the months of May and October, enjoy an organ concert.  They take place every day at 12:00pm and every Thursday at 7:30pm.

3) Largest Continuous Ceiling Fresco: The ceiling fresco in the staircase of the Würzburg Residence (photo above) is the largest continuous ceiling fresco in the world. Measuring 19 m x 32 m and restored by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. He’s the greatest fresco painter of the 18th century. Due to the vaulting, its surface area covers 677 m². Once the former residence of the prince bishops of Würzburg. The residence was built between 1720 and 1744 and completed in 1780. Interestingly, it is one of the most important palaces in Europe. In addition, it has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site.

4) Largest glass roof: The transparent acrylic glass pavilion roof of the Munich Olympic Stadium at the Olympia Park is amazing.  The roof was specially designed and built for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games. Also, it measures 85,000 m². Thus, it is the largest glass roof in the world. Today, visitors can book a tour and climb to the glass roof of the stadium. The Olympia Park and Olympic stadium offer many different events throughout the year. Therefore, it is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors in magical Munich.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your luxury vacation to Bavaria, Germany. See the top destination sites, including the world record places referenced above.

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