January 26-27. 2008
After I picked up the girls at the Richards we made a quick drive over to Heiderlberg to visit the Heidelberg castle.
Built in different stages from the late 13th century to the 17th century, it has "survived" weather (on at least two different occassions lightning caused significant damage to the upper part of the castle), wars, and basic neglect at times. Martin Luther stayed here some time in the 1500s, while later the 30 Years War (to oversimplify, Protestants vs. Catholics) would be triggered when Frederick V accepted the crown from Protestants rebelling against the Holy Roman Empire. During this war Heidelberg Castle would see its first impact from a war. We found one area of the castle where the Donjon or Keep had completely fallen off, leaving the inner part of the castle exposed.
After spending a little time at the caste, we then drove up to Frankfurt where we met the Davis' for dinner and spent the night at their house in Kronberg. It was great to catch up with our friends from Toronto and we are happy that they have moved closer to allow for more frequent visits! All our other friends, from Toronto, or wherever, feel free to move closer and we promise to find time and opportunity to visit!
We had to leave the Davis' relatively early on Sunday morning to get back to Budapest in time for me to make my flight to the UK. We basically arrived back in Budapest and 1/2 hour later I was in a taxi to the airport, although this time, unfortunately, I had to leave Heather and the girls behind.
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