Germany - Bernkastel

Bernkastel-Kues (IPA: [ˈbɛʁnkastəlˈkuːs]) is a town over 700 years old, located on the Middle Moselle river in the district of Bernkastel-Wittlich, in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.

* The first settlements date back to the time of the Linear Pottery culture in the 30th century BC.
* 1291 king Rudolph of Habsburg grants the municipal law to Berncastel, Welschbillig, Mayen, Montabaur and Saarburg.
* In 1905 the village of Kues and the city of Bernkastel were joined to the town of Bernkastel-Cues.
* In 1970 the neighbouring villages of Andel and Wehlen joined the town.

* Market square - Bernkastel-Kues is very famous for its wines and the mediaeval market square. The square is surrounded by many well preserved half-timbered houses as well as the Renaissance city hall built in 1608. Especially well-known is the very small and narrow so-called "Spitzhäuschen" (the "Pointed House") which dates back to 1416. At the centre of the market square lies the fountain of St. Michael (St. Michaelsbrunnen).
* Bear fountain - In the vicinity of the market square the "Bärenbrunnen" (bear fountain) can be found. It was build on the site of the former "bear well".
* The Doctor Fountain (Doctorbrunnen) depicts scenes of the ancient saga about a local wine, the famous "Bernkasteler Doctor".
* The church of St. Michael was first mentioned in 1177, however the current building dates back to the end of the 14th century. Its tower is especially impressive and was once incorporated in the city defences. It thus looks more like an old keep than like a church spire.
* The Graacher Gate (Graacher Tor) is the only remaining medieval town gate
* Ruin of the Castle of Landshut - Towering above the city of Bernkastel on a hill is the "Burgruine Landshut" (ruin of the Castle of Landshut), built in 1277. Due to an accidental fire the building burnt down on January 8, 1692. It is a popular viewpoint and gives a beautiful view over the city and the vineyards of the Mosel valley.
* The birthplace of Nicholas of Cusa is well preserved and lies in the town district of Kues.
* St. Nikolaus Hospital houses a library with a famous collection of ancient books. It is also well-known for its chapel, where the heart of the great philosopher, cardinal and polymath Nicholas of Cusa is buried.