GERMANY
When we decided to tour Germany, my goal was to gain a deeper understanding of modern Germany and to visit a concentration camp firsthand. I wanted to hear from Germans about the post-war rebuilding years and to be assured that such events would never repeat. I left feeling confident that it wouldn't happen again in Germany, though we all recognize how unpredictable our world is and that world peace isn't imminent.
FEATURED LOCATIONS
For our first visit to Germany, we divided out time between Dresden, Berlin, Potsdam, Munich, Nuremberg, Salzburg and a few smaller villages along the way.
RECENT LOCATIONS
Dresden was complete destroyed by the Allies in 1945. Known as the jewel of German, the Russians recognized its history and value and they rebuilt many of the major buildings in the original Baroque style.
Berlin is a large city with a complex history. We spent five days which was enough for an overview, but definitely a place where one could spend much more time exploring.
Nuremberg has a history that dates back to the Middle Ages and gained further significance as the location of the Nuremberg Trials. We spent two days here which was just the right amount of time to gain some insight to its history and the trials.
Throughout its history, Munich has been a significant center for culture, politics, and economics. The city boasts numerous historic buildings, although many were destroyed by Allied bombings during WWII and have since been reconstructed.
We took a half-day trip from Berlin to Potsdam, where Frederick II built his summer palace, Sans Souci. The town is small and elegant, with many buildings restored to their historical appearance.
Passau established in 1219, is notable for St. Stephan's Cathedral and Passau Castle. It is a pretty spot on the Danube where we made stop while on a river cruise.
