Highlight • Historical Site
Goliath House — David and Goliath mural
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The Goliathhaus David and Goliath Mural is a captivating historical site located in the heart of Regensburg, Germany, a city renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town. Standing at an elevation of approximately 348 meters within the city, this early Gothic former city castle is most famous for its monumental facade painting depicting the biblical battle between David and Goliath. It serves as a prominent landmark, deeply embedded in the rich history and architectural tapestry of Regensburg.
Visitors are…
Tips
September 13, 2020
Cycling
If you look closely, you will discover a tiny frog added as a caricature of a snooty official in the 19th century.
•July 9, 2024
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•February 11, 2023
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de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goliathhaus
Wikipedia (list of architectural monuments in Regensburg, 2023-09-03):
de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liste_der_Baudenkmäler_in_Regensburg
de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liste_der_Baudenkmäler_in_Regensburg-Zentrum#D-3-62-000-507
“So-called Goliath House, former patrician property... Five-story building with moat roof, crenellated finish, tower and rich window structure, early Gothic, first half of the 13th century, richly structured bay window towards the Watmarkt, beginning of the 14th century, monumental fresco David and Goliath originally by Melchior Bocksberger around 1570/80 , drastic renovations in 1897/98 and 1957/58; see old town ensemble, street scene Watmarkt … D-3-62-000-507”
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Details
Informations
Elevation 350 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of the Goliathhaus beyond the mural?
The Goliathhaus is an early Gothic former city castle, built around 1260 on the foundations of the northern Roman wall of the Castra Regina legionary camp. It was the ancestral seat of the wealthy Thundorfer patrician family from around 1290. Interestingly, its name is believed to predate the mural, possibly deriving from the 'Goliards,' wandering theology students of the 12th century who may have stayed on the site. In 1945, Oskar Schindler, who saved 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust, lived in the Goliathhaus as a war refugee, and a commemorative plaque can be found on the rear of the building.
Are there any guided tours or tickets required to see the Goliathhaus mural?
No, the Goliathhaus David and Goliath Mural is an outdoor facade painting on a historic building. It is freely accessible to the public at any time, and no tickets or specific tours are required to view it. You can simply walk up and admire the artwork as part of your exploration of Regensburg's old town.
What are some specific nearby attractions to visit after seeing the Goliathhaus?
The Goliathhaus is centrally located in Regensburg's UNESCO World Heritage old town, making it easy to combine with other sights. You are just a short walk from the iconic Stone Bridge, the Regensburg Cathedral (Dom St. Peter), and the Old Town Hall. The charming cobblestone streets are filled with historic buildings, shops, and squares to explore.
Where can I find parking that allows for easy access to the Goliathhaus?
While parking directly in the pedestrian-friendly old town is very limited, there are several public parking garages on the outskirts of the city center. From these garages, you can enjoy a pleasant walk through the historic streets to reach the Goliathhaus. Consider options like the Dachauplatz parking garage or Arnulfsplatz parking garage, which are typically within a 10-15 minute walk.
Is the Goliathhaus David and Goliath Mural suitable for a winter visit?
Yes, the Goliathhaus mural can be admired year-round, including in winter. As an outdoor facade, its visibility is not affected by the season. Visiting in winter can offer a unique perspective, perhaps with fewer crowds and the possibility of snow enhancing the historic atmosphere of Regensburg's old town. Just be sure to dress warmly for your walk.
What kind of dining options are available directly at or very close to the Goliathhaus?
The Goliathhaus itself houses various facilities, including a hotel and a restaurant on its upper floors, offering guests culinary experiences in a historic setting. Additionally, due to its central location in Regensburg's old town, you'll find a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and traditional Bavarian eateries within a very short walking distance, catering to various tastes and budgets.
What is the story behind the small frog in the mural?
If you look closely at the lower right corner of the fresco, you'll discover a tiny green frog. This humorous detail was added by Hans Kranzberger during an 1841 restoration as a caricature of a local official. It's a fun 'hidden gem' that many visitors enjoy spotting.
How has the David and Goliath mural changed over time through its restorations?
The original mural was painted by Melchior Bocksberger in 1573. Over the centuries, it has undergone several restorations, with the latest version dating to 1900 by Franz Rinner. Each restoration has brought slight variations in the depiction, contributing to the mural's unique character and layered history. Despite these changes, the core imagery of David and Goliath has been preserved.
Is the area around the Goliathhaus suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely. The Goliathhaus is noted as a family-friendly attraction. Children often enjoy spotting the towering Goliath and the tiny, humorous frog in the mural. The surrounding old town of Regensburg is largely pedestrian-friendly, making it safe and enjoyable for families to stroll and explore. There are also many cafes and shops that cater to families nearby.
What is the best way to approach the Goliathhaus to get the most impressive view of the mural?
The most striking view of the Goliathhaus mural is typically from Goliathstraße, as its northern facade is adorned with the artwork. If you are entering the city from the Stone Bridge via Brückstraße, you will naturally approach the building from an angle that offers a dramatic reveal of the colossal painting as you navigate the narrow streets. This approach allows you to appreciate its scale and detail as it dominates the streetscape.