Kempten

Kempten, situated in the Allgäu region of Bavaria, stands as one of Germany's most ancient urban settlements, with a documented history spanning over 2,000 years. This appealing city offers a compelling blend of Roman heritage, Baroque elegance, and modern Bavarian life. It's a place where winding lanes lead to significant historical sites, and the surrounding Alpine foothills provide a natural backdrop.

Often referred to as the 'metropolis of the Allgäu,' Kempten serves as a cultural and economic center for the region. Travelers can explore a layered history, from Roman ruins at the Archaeological Park Cambodunum to the magnificence of the Basilica of St. Lorenz and the Residenz Kempten. Beyond its historical significance, Kempten offers a lively atmosphere with markets, festivals, and a welcoming spirit, inviting discovery of its unique character.

## From Celtic Settlement to Roman Capital Kempten's origins trace back to a Celtic settlement known as Kambodounon, mentioned by the Greek geographer Strabo around 50 BC, making it one of the oldest written references to a German city. Around 15 BC, Roman troops conquered the area, establishing the Roman town of Cambodunum. This Roman settlement grew significantly, becoming the capital of the Roman province of Raetia in the 1st century AD. The Archaeological Park Cambodunum today preserves and showcases these Roman roots, with excavated remains of a forum, basilica, and thermal baths.

## The Divided City: Monastery vs. Imperial Town After the Romans departed, Kempten's early medieval history remains somewhat obscured. However, it's known that Benedictine monks arrived in the 8th century, establishing a monastery that would become the first in the Allgäu region. For centuries, Kempten was a 'rival double town,' divided between the Catholic monastery town ruled by a prince-abbot and a free imperial town loyal to the Protestant faith. This unique division shaped the city's development, leading to distinct architectural styles—Gothic in the old town and Baroque in the upper, monastic town.

## Baroque Splendor and Modern Unity The Thirty Years' War brought destruction to Kempten, with the monastery and church looted and destroyed in 1632. However, a period of rebuilding followed, with Prince-Abbot Roman Giel von Gielsberg commissioning the construction of a new monastery and residence in 1651, alongside the Basilica of St. Lorenz. This marked the creation of Germany's first monumental Baroque monastery complex. The two rival towns were eventually unified under Bavarian leadership in 1818, leading to the harmonious Kempten seen today. The city continues to celebrate its layered past, with museums and archaeological sites bringing its 2,000-year history to life.

Begin your exploration at the Archaeological Park Cambodunum (APC), an open-air museum showcasing the remains of the Roman city of Cambodunum. Here, you can wander through a reconstructed Gallo-Roman temple district, explore the small thermal baths, and see the foundations of the forum and basilica. Interactive exhibits and a multimedia app enhance the experience, offering insights into Roman daily life.

Next, visit the Basilica of St. Lorenz, a prominent landmark and a masterpiece of early Baroque architecture. Its imposing double-tower facade and mighty dome dominate the cityscape, while the interior dazzles with ornate stucco, frescoes by Andreas Asper, and gilded altars. Adjacent to the basilica is the Residenz Kempten, the former princely residence of the prince-abbots. Take a guided tour through its State Rooms to admire the opulent Rococo interiors, including the magnificent Throne Hall.

Stroll through Rathausplatz, the historic main square, where the medieval Town Hall stands as a testament to Kempten's past as a free imperial city. Nearby, the Erasmus Chapel Showroom offers a captivating underground archaeological exhibition, revealing layers of medieval Kempten. For sweeping views of the city and the surrounding Alps, consider a visit to the Burghalde, an old ruin that was once part of the town fortifications.

The best time to visit Kempten for warm-weather activities is from late June to late August, when average daytime temperatures are around 21-22°C (70-72°F). Spring to early autumn (April–October) generally offers pleasant weather for exploring markets and festivals. While July is the warmest month, it also sees the highest precipitation. Winter (December to February) brings colder temperatures, averaging around 0-3°C (32-37°F), creating a picturesque setting for Christmas markets and snow-dusted landscapes.

Kempten is easily accessible by train, with direct connections from cities like Munich and Augsburg. The city center is largely walkable, making it easy to explore the main attractions on foot. For those planning to venture further into the Allgäu region or the nearby Alps, having a car provides greater flexibility. Public transportation within Kempten is efficient.

Accommodation options range from budget to mid-range, with hotels near the pedestrian zone or around St. Mang Square and Hildegard Square offering convenient access to sights and restaurants. The local cuisine features hearty Swabian dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients. Don't miss trying Allgäuer Kässpatzen (cheese noodles) and local cheeses. The city also has a university, contributing to a dynamic cultural and culinary scene.