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Square · Bernkastel-Kues, Renânia-Palatinado
Marktplatz Bernkastel
Medieval square of Bernkastel, surrounded by half-timbered houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, with the Renaissance town hall of 1608, Saint Michael's fountain of 1606 and, on the corner, the narrow Spitzhäuschen dating from 1416.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Marktplatz Bernkastel
The Marktplatz of Bernkastel is the heart of the town's old walled core, on the right bank of the Mosela. Three- and four-storey half-timbered houses, many from the 16th and 17th centuries, enclose the square with exposed-beam facades and flower-filled windows in summer.
On the main side stands the Rathaus (town hall), in Renaissance style, from 1608. In front, the Michaelsbrunnen, Saint Michael's fountain from 1606, draws attention for its wrought-iron grille. The square is used as the town's reception room, with outdoor tables and events throughout the year.
At the exit to Karlstraße is the Spitzhäuschen, a half-timbered little house from 1416, very narrow at the base and wider above, which seems to lean over the alley. One explanation is that taxes were charged by the area occupied on the ground, so buildings were built upward. The ground floor has operated for decades as a wine tavern.
Near the square, the Doctorbrunnen commemorates the legend that gave the Bernkasteler Doctor vineyard its name: Archbishop Boemund II is said to have been cured of a serious illness after drinking a glass of the local wine. Riesling from the steep slopes remains the region's main activity.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour for the square and the surrounding lanes, not counting meals or tastings.
Best time
Early, before the arrival of excursion boats and buses, or late in the afternoon. On the first weekend of September the square usually hosts the Middle Mosela wine festival, and at the end of November the Christmas market.
How to get there
From the Kues bus stop, cross the bridge over the Mosela and walk about 10 minutes to the centre of Bernkastel. Tour boats stop at Bernkastel's bank, a few steps from the square.
Tip
To photograph the Spitzhäuschen, stand on Karlstraße looking back toward the square. In the taverns, order the wine list by the glass to compare dry Rieslings (trocken) and off-dry (feinherb).
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Marktplatz Bernkastel
What is the Spitzhäuschen?
A half-timbered little house from 1416, narrow at the bottom and wider above, at the exit of the square onto Karlstraße. Today the ground floor is a wine tavern.
How old is Bernkastel's town hall?
The Rathaus is Renaissance, dating from 1608. The São Miguel fountain in front is from 1606.
What is the Doctor wine of Bernkastel?
It is the name of a famous vineyard in the town. Legend says that Archbishop Boemund II was cured of a serious illness by drinking the local wine; the Doctorbrunnen near the square recalls that story.
Does the square get crowded?
On sunny days and at weekends, yes, especially around midday. Early in the morning and late afternoon it is quieter.