One of Germany 's most beautiful cities, Heidelberg is situated on the banks of the river Neckar surrounded by lovely bushed hills. It is here that the Neckar valley opens into the Rhine valley. In 1386 the oldest university of Germany was founded here by the Elector Ruprecht I. Heidelberg fulfils all expectations with its romantic setting on the banks of the Neckar, its Gothic and Renaissance castle  The picture-perfect town is boosted by numerous lively festivals and popular student taverns.

This town, in a valley that traps warm air, has a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere and a balmy summer climate.

Heidelberg castle is one of the most important German cultural monuments. The structure, now largely in ruins, preserves numerous examples of medieval, Renaissance, and baroque German architecture. As a residence of the Palatinate electors from the 13th to the 18th century, it experienced a magnificent and eventful history. Periods of expansion were followed by those of devastation. The castle buildings with the greatest artistic importance were built during the Renaissance. Since the 19th century Heidelberg has been famous the world over for the romantic appearance of its castle ruins and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

This beautiful house was constructed in 1592 for the family of a rich cloth merchant. It is a fine example of German Mannerist style. Inside are now a hotel and restaurant.

Built in 1400-1441 on the site of a late-Romanesque basilica, the church of the Holy Spirit is the town's oldest sanctuary.

Built in 1817 on the slopes of Heiligenberg at an altitude of 200 m. This road offers a magnificent view of Heidelberg and its castle.

Heidelberg University was founded by Elector Ruprecht I of the Palatinate and chartered by Pope Urban VI in 1386. In the late 14th and early 15th centuries, three libraries came into existence that was part of the university. They consisted of the book collections of the liberal arts faculty, of the higher faculties and of the collegiate church (Holy Ghost Church).