Landshut

　　Landshut is situated on the Isar River in the German state of Bavaria and serves as the capital and largest city of the Lower Bavaria administrative region. In Eastern Bavaria, it is the second-largest city after Regensburg and also an important hub in the northeasternmost part of the Munich metropolitan area in Europe.

　　The combined area of all parks and green spaces in Landshut totals 235 hectares. The Hofgarten Park, located next to Trausnitz Castle on the Hofberg hill, is one of the oldest parks in Bavaria and one of Landshut’s most significant green areas. The cityscape of Landshut is dominated by Gothic architecture, notably represented by Trausnitz Castle and St. Martin’s Church, whose tower is the tallest brick church tower in the world. The Old Town Hall was originally built in 1380; the Town Court, constructed between 1536 and 1543 under Duke Louis X, is the earliest Renaissance court building north of the Alps. The Bavarian National Museum has set up the “Art and Wonder Chamber” within Trausnitz Castle, showcasing the collection of William V from the mid-16th century. The Hofberg Sculpture Museum is situated beneath the Hofberg and is almost entirely housed in caves, featuring a significant collection of African art.

　　The most important regular event in Landshut is the Landshut Wedding, one of the largest historical celebrations in Europe, lasting three weeks and reenacting the 1475 wedding of Duke George and a Polish princess. In addition, the Trausnitz Castle hosts a garden festival, the Landshut Short Film Festival takes place every March, and the Landshut Literature Festival is held for about ten days.

　　Landshut Reason to visit: The largest city in Bavaria, Germany Continent: Europe Country/Region: Germany State/Province: Bavaria City: Landshut