Population approx. 40,000 - rich history - beginning more than 1250 years ago (monastery, abbey) - today capital of the administrative district of Central Franconia - formerly reigned by Hohenzollern Princes (Markgrafen von Brandenburg-Ansbach) for 450 years - baroque palace (18th century) with 26 state rooms, marvelous interior, rich art collection (It's a must!) - Orangery in the historical 18th century park (Hofgarten) / originally orange plants were stored in the orangery in winter, today: center for festivals such as the Rokoko-Festivals in summer.

Dating back to the 9th century, the picturesque, historic town is a popular place among tourists from all over the world. The fortified city center features the half-timbered houses and narrow alleys that are characteristic for Franconia's historic places. Many historic buildings are open to the public.

First mentioned in the second half of the 11th century - around 1350 property of the Teutonic Order - 2 medieval gates - old parts of the medieval town almost completely fortified (excellent location for snap shots and videos) - Bailiff's House, St. Mary's Minster, one of the most remarkable churches in Central Franconia - the poet (Minnesaenger) Wolfram von Eschenbach (author of the epic poem "Parzival") is buried in the minster.

Medieval little town - fortified wall (from about 1450) still existing - old city hall from 15th century - at the end of the Medieval Ages Merkendorf became a property of the rich Cistercian Abbey of Heilsbronn.

One of the oldest Cistercian Abbeys in Germany (founded in 1132) - the minster is referred to as "the sleeping compartment of the Franconian nobility", as hundreds of ancient noblemen and 34 Cistercian Abbots are buried in the church - excellent restoration of the interior of the minster - works of medieval masons, painters and other artists from Nuremberg.
Framework houses can be seen all over the center of the town - selected information concerning historical events and arts can be obtained at the entrance to the minster.

First mentioned in the 13th century - located on a hill - today: Museum, Franconian History through the ages.

13th century property of the Hohenzollern nobility - Burggraf Conrad donated the castle to the Teutonic Order - After the Reformation (16th century) it remained a Catholic enclave in the protestant region. Picturesque sight.

Completely surrounded by water, medieval origin buildings preserved in Renaissance style - picturesque sight - private property - no access to interior.

Two castles (red and blue castle) property of the Earls of Seckendorf - first mentioned around 1250 - private property.

First mentioned in 1246 - fortress in the Rezat Valley - destroyed in 1552 - rebuilt in Renaissance style - massive fortification - Area open to the public - inside: important documents of the State Archives of Nuremberg (good possibility for a walk in an old fortification).

Fortification, first mentioned in 1150 (!) - today: mighty Renaissance-fortress (about 1450) - severely damaged in 1945 during World War II.

Ruins of a 12th-century castle, destroyed after the Thirty Years War by fire in 1651 - Access at your own risk.

First mentioned around 1300 - never taken by enemy forces during the Middle Ages - medieval surroundings - modern golf course.