Heidelberg, Germany

Heidelberg's Old Town was largely spared from Allied bombing during WWII, preserving its Baroque charm almost entirely, unlike many other major German cities.

It is home to Ruprecht Karl University, founded in 1386, making it the oldest university in Germany and one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world.

Heidelberg Castle houses the 'Heidelberg Tun,' the world's largest wine barrel, with a colossal capacity of 220,000 liters (over 58,000 gallons), though it's rarely filled today.

The discovery of the 'Heidelberg Man' (Homo heidelbergensis) jawbone in 1907 near Heidelberg revealed the oldest known human fossil in Europe, dating back approximately 600,000 years.

The historic Studentenkarzer, or Student Jail, was where university students were incarcerated for minor offenses, leaving behind a unique tradition of elaborate graffiti and artwork on the walls of their 'honorable imprisonment.'

The Philosophenweg (Philosopher's Walk) boasts a unique microclimate due to its south-facing slope, allowing Mediterranean plants like almonds, figs, and lemons to flourish outdoors, far north of their typical habitat.

Heidelberg was designated a UNESCO City of Literature in 2014, recognizing its rich literary history, vibrant contemporary scene, and dedication to promoting reading and writing.

Visitors to the Old Bridge often rub the 'Bridge Monkey' statue. Legend says touching its mirror brings good fortune, its fingers ensure a return to Heidelberg, and the small mice next to it promise fertility.