Discover the Golden Road: history, culture and enjoyment!

Discover the Golden Road: history, culture and enjoyment!

In the Middle Ages, Prague and Nuremberg were connected by the Golden Road, which served as the most important trade route between these two cities since the 13th century. This route, which stretches for about 300 kilometers, allows trains to travel between the two cities today in around three hours using the Via Carolina. Promomobil reports that Emperor Charles IV attached great importance to undisturbed travel and promoted this route with various privileges. This meant he was able to travel duty-free between Prague and Nuremberg – a real advantage for the royal representatives.

The Golden Road, which was not limited to the then modern trade routes, has a long history and is based on ancient connections from prehistory. It gained importance under Charles IV, as he acquired territories in the “Upper Palatinate” and placed them under the control of the Bohemian crown. The area became known as New Bohemia and facilitated the connection between Bohemia and Nuremberg. Interestingly, remains of the two towns along this route are still visible today, such as castles and old trade routes, adding to the region's charm.

The historic route

Running almost exclusively in New and Bohemian territory, the Golden Road was a place full of stories. Historical accounts testify to raids, such as the one on a Strasbourg embassy in 1395. But despite these inconveniences, the road also served as an imperial route along which Bohemian kings traveled to important imperial assemblies and elections. Charles IV himself is said to have traveled this route 52 times, which underlines the importance of this route.

The trade route not only brought significant economic benefits to the neighboring cities, but was also a hub for the exchange of goods and cultures. Things like hides, wax and spices came from Bohemia, while Flanders exported cloth, seeds and wine to the region. The German Hanseatic League also used the Golden Road, which contributed to the flourishing of trade and economic cooperation.

More recent developments

After the fall of the Iron Curtain, the Golden Road regained its importance and today attracts cyclists and hikers. Hiking trails are offered along the route that bring the historical flair of the route to life. Over the years, new paths and routes have been created to make this historic journey more accessible to tourists. According to reports, there are already signposted hiking trails that give a feel for the historical heritage - for example between Sulzbach-Rosenberg and the state border.

The Golden Road is more than just a route - it is a living history book that tells how cultures, trade flows and power relationships developed over centuries. Whether by bike or on foot, exploring this route is an impressive experience that conveys the spirit of the past and allows you to experience the beauty of the region up close. Thanks to its rich history and restored accessibility, the road remains an important link between Bohemia and Bavaria.