|
Nijmegen (Nimwegen)
The city dates back
to Roman times, when it was known as Noviomagus.
Centuries after the
time of the Caesars, during the period of the Holy Roman Empire,
Charlemagne
had a hilltop castle here overlooking the river. That was replaced
after another 300 or so
years with a castle for King Frederick I, AKA Frederick von Staufen,
AKA Barbarossa.
Although dismantled in the late 18th century,
some ruins of the Barbarossa castle still remain (below).
Stones from the
earliest structures were used in later construction in the city. In
addition to a casino (built on the site of the former castle) the wharf
area is home to several river cruise boats and numerous restaurants.
In winter you might
see (or do) outdoor ice skating.
In the warmer months, try going to nearby Gendt and taking the
Fietsveer, or bicycle ferry,
to Millinger Waard.
For centuries, Nijmegen has had a special friendship with the nearby
German city of Kleve.
 |
|
 |
|
Nijmegen
|
|
The square in central
Nijmegen (AKA Nimwegen, Nymegen) is rather quiet in thiis
photo but can be a
very busy place on a warm afternoon.