Regions and Cities of Germany

This is the largest of the German federal states and is also known for sticking to tradition more firmly than any of the other states. Bavaria has a score of extremely beautiful places, such as its alpine region - where Germany 's highest peak, Zugspitze (9,962 m) lies - and the Bayerischer Wald (Bavarian Forest) National Park.

The Bavarian mountains are paradise for mountaineering enthusiasts and the lakes and reservoirs are perfect for a wide range of water sports. Bavaria is also famous for its parks and gardens - such as the English Garden in Munich - and for its castles and palaces: Linderhof, Neuschwanstein and Herrenchiemsee, among others.

Although Bavaria's economy is based largely on industry, the state also has a strong agricultural sector. Vineyards and hop farms, for the all-important beer production make significant contributions. Munich is the region's capital and a modern city with bustling beer houses. Also to be found here is the Deutsches Museum (German Museum) containing the largest collection of objects related to natural science history, the Old Art Gallery and the State Library, containing over six million volumes.

In Nuremberg, the some of the most important sights include the churches of the Banz and Ettal Monasteries and the National Germanic Museum, among others. Nuremberg held great significance during the Nazi Germany era, when huge Nazi Party conventions and propaganda events were held in Nuremberg. Today many examples of Nazi architecture can still be seen in the city. Although about ninety percent of the medieval city center was destroyed in Allied strategic bombing from 1943-1945, the city was rebuilt after the war and could be restored almost to its pre-war appearance including the reconstruction of some of its medieval buildings.