After lovely breakfasts with our Kulmbach host families, we packed up again and were driven down the road to Bayreuth. Again we were amazed by the age of the town, which was first mentioned in documents from 1194! We visited the porcelain factory Walkure where we were able to have a walk through the factory and learn some more about production lines and were impressed by the mechanisation (especially the robots).
Bayreuth is on the cultural map thanks in many ways to Wilhemine, the sister of King Frederick the Great of Prussia, who invited many artists, composers and architects there in the mid 18th century. Our RC Bayreuth hosts Philip, Nicola and Klaus took us on a tour of the city including Richard Wagner’s festival hall, the New Palace and Court Garden. After a yummy meal at an Italian restaurant we walked to the Margravial Opera House, designed and built in the 18th century by Giuseppe Galli Bibiena who was probably the most famous theatre architect of the time. We were impressed by the contrast between the minimal decoration in the foyer and then a spectacular ceremonious baroque interior. The opera house is one of a few 18th century theatre buildings remaining and attempts to preserve the theatre are extremely challenging (e.g. climate control all year around, constant restorations and limited concerts).
Our pension for the next two nights is around the corner from Wagner’s Haus which he built with cash from Ludwig II (who has a monument out the front of the house). There would undoubtedly be a tale or two to be told inside the walls, however unfortunately the Wagner museum inside was closed for renovations. Oh well, plenty more museums await us we are certain!
In the evening after having to christen our umbrellas (!) we had a lovely traditional Bavarian meal at a cellar in town, followed by a drink at “the French Embassy”. Many thanks to RC Bayreuth for a fabulous cultural day.
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