The literal center of town, Markplatz (market square) is composed by a mix of bourgeois houses and old Frankish half-timbered houses which makes this place known as the "Festival hall of Franconia".

It is one of the symbols of the city. The former cloister church demonstrates still its romanic origins, sprinkled with gothic style particularly in the choir. The altar dedicated to St. Mary was built in the late 15th century by Michael Wohlgemut, a teacher of the famous German medieval painter Albrecht Dürers.

It was once the parish church of the city. The frescos in the ceiling of the choir stem from the 15th century, but the baroque altar was only finished at the end of the 17th century. Notice also the sandstone relief of Jörg von Ehenheims, a medieval knight, of the 15th century as well.

The Upper Gate is the only surviving Baroque gateway of the city, lovingly restaured by the city. It is also the sight for many events, hosting plays, concerts and other cultural venues.

Here you will learn about the legend of the hunt of Charlemagne and the foundation of the cloister church. According to it, the great emperor was hunting here a few years before his death, in 814. Here he saw a pidgeon take flight, and discovered here a fresh water source. After regaining his strenght, he continued his hunt and to thank God for His gift, he built here a church and a cloister, out of which the city grew.

Tour duration includes walking in between locations listed.