The magnificent Thurn und Taxis Palace stands in the heart of Regensburg, Bavaria, a testament to Germany's rich history and architectural grandeur. This former Benedictine monastery, transformed into a royal residence, boasts over 500 rooms and is now the largest privately inhabited castle in the world. As the ancestral home of the Thurn und Taxis family, whose rise to nobility is intertwined with the development of Europe's postal system, the palace offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of the German aristocracy.
From its baroque splendor to its modern-day inhabitants, Thurn und Taxis Palace captivates with its blend of historical significance and contemporary relevance.
Highlights
- Guided tours of opulent staterooms and ballrooms
- Extensive carriage museum and treasury showcasing family wealth
- Beautiful palace grounds set in an English landscape park
Contents
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Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Thurn und Taxis Palace is worth visiting with kids aged 8 and up who are interested in history, fairy tales, or royal lifestyles. The palace's 1,000 rooms spark young imaginations, allowing children to envision life as a prince or princess. The carriage museum is particularly captivating, with its collection of ornate vehicles that seem straight out of a storybook. Additionally, the palace's connection to the postal system's history provides an educational twist that can pique curiosity about past communication methods.
Family-friendly features
- Interactive audio guides suitable for children
- Spacious palace grounds for kids to explore
- Carriage museum with visually appealing displays
History of the Thurn und Taxis Family
Photo: thurnundtaxis.de
The history of the Thurn und Taxis family is a captivating narrative of innovation, opportunity, and ascension to nobility. The family's name, which roughly translates to "tower and badger" in English, originates in the 13th century. Their prominence began with Omodeo de Tassis, the family patriarch, who revolutionized communication by establishing one of Europe's first modern postal systems.
This innovative venture caught the attention of Emperor Maximilian I of the Holy Roman Empire, who recognized the family's significant contributions to postal services by granting them noble status. This elevation began the Thurn und Taxis family's long-standing influence in European affairs.
Several key figures played crucial roles in shaping the family's legacy. Franz von Taxis (1459-1517) established and expanded the European postal system, solidifying the family's reputation as communication pioneers.
Later, Prince Maximilian Joseph (1769-1831) extended the family's influence by founding the Czech branch, further cementing their presence across Central Europe.
In modern times, Princess Gloria has become a notable figure, serving as both a current resident of the palace and a cultural ambassador. Her efforts have helped maintain the family's relevance and visibility in contemporary society, bridging the gap between the family's rich historical legacy and its present-day significance
The Palace
Photo: thurnundtaxis.de
Thurn und Taxis Palace, also known as St. Emmeram Palace, has undergone significant transformations:
- Monastic beginnings: Originally a Benedictine monastery dating back to the 8th century
- Royal conversion: Transformed into a princely residence in the early 19th century
- Architectural marvel:
- Baroque style dominates the palace's aesthetics
- Features over 1,000 rooms, making it one of Europe's largest palaces
- Includes the Papal Basilica of St. Emmeram, one of Bavaria's oldest baroque churches
- Modern amenities: When converted, it boasted luxuries like flushing toilets, making it one of Europe's most modern palaces of its time
Visitor Experience
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Exploring Thurn und Taxis Palace offers a rich and varied experience:
- Guided tours:
- 90-minute tours of the staterooms and ballrooms
- German-speaking guides with English audio guides are available
- Areas of interest:
- Medieval cloister
- Princely crypt chapel
- Former stables housing the carriage collection
- Treasury displaying family jewels and precious artifacts
- Photography restrictions: Most interior areas prohibit photography
- Gift shop: Offers souvenirs and additional information
Special Features
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Thurn und Taxis Palace boasts several unique features that set it apart from other historical landmarks. Perhaps most notably, it continues to serve as a living residence for Prince Albert II, the 12th Prince of Thurn and Taxis, blending centuries of history with contemporary life. This aspect of "living history" offers visitors a rare glimpse into the modern lifestyle of European nobility.
The Thurn und Taxis family's wealth and status further distinguish the palace. With a fortune estimated at over €1 billion, they remain one of Germany's wealthiest families. Their extensive land holdings make them the largest private landowners in the country, underscoring their continued influence and prestige.
The family's business acumen is also evident in their ventures. Although they sold their brewery to the Paulaner Group in 1996, the Thurn und Taxis brand continues to be used in beer production. This arrangement maintains the family's connection to Germany's renowned brewing tradition while showcasing their adaptability to modern business practices.
These special features create a unique visitor experience, offering insights into historical grandeur and contemporary aristocratic life. The palace is a testament to the family's enduring legacy, bridging past and present in a way few European palaces can match.
At a distance of 1,3 km is The House of Bavarian History, which we also recommend to visit.
Events and Festivals
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Thurn und Taxis Palace hosts various events throughout the year:
- Thurn und Taxis Palace Festival:
- Annual event in July
- Features international musical stars across genres
- Ranked among Europe's top 10 festivals
- Romantic Christmas Market:
- Renowned beyond Regensburg's borders
- Offers a magical winter experience
- Year-round concerts and cultural events:
- Palace grounds serve as a vibrant cultural venue
- Attracts over 30,000 visitors annually
Best Time to Visit
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The best time to visit Thurn und Taxis Palace with children is during summer, particularly in July during the Palace Festival. Weekdays are less crowded, and mornings offer cooler temperatures for exploring. The palace is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., providing ample time for families to enjoy the attractions.
Recommended Duration: A typical visit lasts 2-3 hours, including a guided tour and time to explore the grounds.
Our Resume
Thurn und Taxis Palace uniquely blends historical significance and modern-day royal life. Its transformation from a monastery to a princely residence, coupled with the family's fascinating history in postal innovation, provides an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. The palace's continued inhabitation by the Thurn und Taxis family adds an element of living history that sets it apart from other historical sites.
