So now, in my non-linear and fluid time flow, it's Saturday, 29 October. Tomorrow we leave the ship and fly back to the US. But today, we explore Regensburg!
The Atla arrived in Regensburg about 8:30 this morning. Regensburg is a Bavarian city of more than 150,000 inhabitants in southeast Germany, at the confluence of the Danube, Naab, and Regen rivers. It is known for its well-preserved medieval core. This area of the city was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006 because of its well-preserved architecture and the city's historical importance for assemblies during the Holy Roman Empire.
Among the notable people associated with Regensburg is Pope Benedict XVI, who was a professor of theology at the University of Regensburg from 1969 to 1977. He didn't actually live in the city of Regensburg, but in Pentling in the district of Regensburg. He has been an honorary citizen since 2006, and our tour guide told us that he still buys his hats in a store in Regensburg.
Our group left on the Regensburg Walking Tour, but my friends dropped out early, thinking that it would be too strenuous for them. I, of course, kept on. Walking, even if it's not the woods, is always in favor with me! Some of the sights we saw on the walking tour, although it's going to be difficult to curate all of the pictures I took. I found Regensburg beautiful and fascinating. Maybe the pictures need to be in sections.
First, in the entry to a museum, a pub called The Whale, a structure built of what was one time the edge of a fortress around the town.
Walking around ...
Down by the river and the ancient salt exchange & storage area
Different architectre. The metal plaques are in the sidewalks, raised slightly above the walking level of the stones/cobblestones. These are in remembrance of Jews sent to various camps. They are raised so one notices them, but are not meant to be walked on. Because they are small, in order to read them one must stand beside (not on) them and bend over somewhat - almost a bow in respect?
I enjoy walking around towns and cities, Abbeys and churches/cathedrals, and seeing as much as I can see. But any of you following my travels this year know that my real joy is in being in nature. On my way back to the ship after the walking tour and then some exploring on my own, I came across this small garden, and wandered among nature for an hour or so. Lovely and calming.
After lunch aboard ship, I headed out to my optional excursion: Weltenburg Abbey & Danube Narrows. Again, my friends had opted to stay aboard the ship, but by now I know at least half the people on the cruise. So there is always someone to talk to.
We headed out of Regensburg (I believe the place we went to meet the ferry is called Kelheim) to board our transportation through the narrows of the Danube to the Abbey.
The ferry, and on the way to the Abbey
Approaching the Abbey. Once docked we walked a little ways into the Abbey. We entered a restaurant where we had handmade pretzels and beer (well, I don't drink beer but others do!). And then we got to go into the the church, and also watch a little film about the Abbey and their activities.
Finally, quite a long walk over to meet buses that took us back to the ship, just in time for dinner!
Tomorrow morning (Sunday, 30 October) we are transported to the Munich Airport, and fly back to the US (Munich to Boston, direct flight). The car service will pick us up there and bring us back to Bow.
It's been a great trip. So much to see, things learned, lots of people met with a few with whom I hope to keep in touch. I will be happy to be home, but again I feel like my need to travel (look at this year!) is not yet completely assuaged. I'm thinking maybe back to Europe in the spring for a few weeks? We shall see.
I will certainly let you all know when I head out again. In the meantime, thanks for following along!
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