New Residence, Bamberg

In the heart of Bamberg, Bavaria, rises a majestic edifice that echoes centuries of history and grandeur—the New Residence (Neue Residenz). This architectural marvel, located on the Cathedral Square (Domplatz), has been a witness to the region's rich past, serving as the residence of the Prince-Bishops of Bamberg from 1604. Today, the New Residence stands as a testament to the opulence of the Baroque and Renaissance periods, housing the State Library and the State Gallery of Bamberg, and offering visitors a glimpse into its illustrious history.

The Historical Tapestry of the New Residence

The construction of the New Residence unfolded in two significant phases. The initial phase commenced in 1604 under Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp von Gebsattel, who commissioned the rear two-winged section in the Renaissance style. This part of the building exudes the elegance and symmetry characteristic of Renaissance architecture, with its intricate stonework and balanced proportions.

The second phase, which began in 1697, saw the addition of the front Baroque section under Prince-Bishop Lothar Franz von Schönborn. Designed by the renowned architect Leonhard Dientzenhofer, this part of the residence showcases the exuberance and grandeur of the Baroque style. Despite financial constraints that halted the full realization of the grand design, the existing structure remains a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, with its ornate facades and stately presence.

Following the secularization of Bavaria in 1803, the New Residence transitioned to serve as a royal residence. Notable inhabitants included Wilhelm, the first Duke in Bavaria, Maximilian II, King of Bavaria from 1848 to 1864, and Otto of Wittelsbach, the first King of Greece, who lived here with his wife Amalie after their return to Bavaria in 1863.

The New Residence also played a role in the final chapter of the Napoleonic era. On June 1, 1815, Louis-Alexandre Berthier, a Marshal of Napoleon, met his end here by falling from an upper window, choosing death over capture by the advancing Russian army. A commemorative plaque on Residenzstraße marks this poignant event.

In 1919, the New Residence briefly became a focal point in Bavarian history once again when the elected government and parliament, led by Minister President Hoffmann, sought refuge in Bamberg. It was within the Mirror Hall of the Harmonie on Schillerplatz that the first democratic Bavarian constitution was adopted.

Exploring the Splendid Halls

The New Residence boasts over 40 opulent rooms, each a masterpiece of design and artistry. Among the most notable is the Emperor's Hall (Kaisersaal), located on the second floor of the central tract. This hall, a pinnacle of late Baroque room art in Franconia, features frescoes by Melchior Steidl, depicting Roman emperors and the four ancient world empires. The trompe-l'œil ceiling and the 16 portraits of emperors, predominantly from the House of Habsburg, offer a breathtaking visual experience.

The Marble Hall and the Mirror Room, adorned with stuccoes by Antonio Bossi, are equally impressive. The White Hall, originally the room of the Obermarschall, was transformed into a representative dining room by Count von Seinsheim in 1772. The Antechamber, with its valuable tapestries and ceiling painting illustrating a segment of the mythological Aeneas tale, served a crucial role in the courtly ceremonies of the 18th century.

The Chinese Cabinet, with its exquisite Chinese lacquer paintings and original wood paneling, is a small but remarkable work of art. The room's intricate parquet flooring and the collection of Chinese ceramics, along with the desk of Prince-Bishop Adam Friedrich von Seinsheim, a late Rococo masterpiece, add to its charm.

The State Library and State Gallery

Since 1965, the East Wing of the New Residence has been home to the State Library of Bamberg. This library houses an extensive collection of manuscripts, incunabula, and early printed books, making it a treasure trove for scholars and bibliophiles.

The State Gallery, a branch of the Bavarian State Painting Collections, was established in the New Residence in 1933. It features an impressive array of masterpieces from German and European Baroque painting. Highlights include Hans Baldung Grien's The Flood and several works by Lucas Cranach the Elder. The Baroque Gallery showcases works by Jan Lievens, the overdoor paintings by the Bamberg painters Marquard, Nikolaus, and Johann Christoph Treu, and the paintings of Johann Kupetzky.

The Enchanting Rose Garden

The Rose Garden, nestled between the wings of the New Residence, is a serene retreat for locals and visitors alike. Offering a stunning view of the cityscape and the Jura hills to the east, the garden is a delightful blend of history and beauty. Originally a Renaissance garden in the 16th century, it was transformed into a Baroque garden in 1733 under Prince-Bishop Friedrich Carl von Schönborn, with designs by the master builder Balthasar Neumann.

The garden pavilion, designed by Johann Jakob Michael Küchel in the Rococo style, and the sculptures by Ferdinand Tietz, depicting themes from ancient mythology, add to the garden's allure. The meticulously maintained flower beds, bordered by box hedges, bloom with 4,500 roses, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances. A memorial for Otto I and his wife Amalie, with inscriptions in Greek and German, stands in a blind arch of the garden wall, adding a touch of historical significance to this picturesque setting.

The New Residence in Bamberg is more than just a historical building; it is a living testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. Its splendid halls, rich collections, and enchanting gardens offer a captivating journey through time, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beautiful city of Bamberg.