The medieval city of Heidelberg looks like it was transplanted straight from the mind of a fairytale author onto the slopes of the Rhine Rift Valley.
The narrow pedestrianised streets, stone bridges and churches of its Old Town are so immaculate you could be forgiven for thinking you’d walked into the scene of an ancient parable.
While beautiful in their own right, the city’s higgledy-piggledy arrangement of red roofs are dominated by the landmark ruins of Heidelberg Castle situated 80 metres (260 feet) up the Königstuhl hillside above.
Although partially demolished during wars in the latter part of 17th century, the castle is considered one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps.
This summer Heidelberg will be the setting for three spectacular light shows.
Bengalian beacons will first bathe the castle in red light, mimicking the flames that tamed the once majestic structure centuries ago.
The glowing castle will then slowly fade into darkness, before a battery of firework explosions illuminate it and the city below in a wash of bright colours.
Each show will be preceded by a festive concert in the Holy Ghost Church, on Market Square. The shows takes place today (Saturday, 2 June), 14 July and 1 September.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
(Image: hipgnosis vision)
