Introducing Bavaria
The largest state in Germany, Bavaria (Bayern) is well endowed with natural riches: snowy Alpine peaks, rushing streams and velvety forests that stir the romantic soul. Bolstering Bavarian pride yet more is a wealth of historic buildings, arguably Germany’s best art museums, and an economy bigger than Sweden’s.
Staunchly conservative, but with a flair for innovation, Bavarians see themselves as separate from the rest of Germany. They still pine for an odd 19th-century monarch, Ludwig II, whose opulent palaces draw millions of visitors each year. Traditions are relished and earthy, and lederhosen-clad men still exist, quaffing frothy steins of beer to the strains of an oompah band. But Bavaria actually embraces three peoples – the Bavarians, Franconians and Swabians.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Children cycling past the Pilgramage Church of the Scourged Saviour.
- Manfred Gottschalk
- Lonely Planet photographer
