In central Kaiserslautern, St. Martin's Square, or Martinsplatz, is the hub of Kaiserslautern's historic district. At the center of the square, framed by two chestnut trees, stands the St. Martin's Square fountain. Visit the Old City Hall of 1745, which has been transformed into the municipal music school. The Rettig House, available for touring, is an impressive example of 18th century architecture. Don't miss the remains of Hotel Zum Donnersburg, which boasts of once housing Napoleon.
This modern-style theater in the city's center hosts a wide variety of cultural events, including operas, plays and ballet performances. The sandstone building stands atop the remains of a Stone Age settlement, yet the theater's most dominating aspect is perhaps the giant marble sculpture of two masks outside. At first glance, the sculpture looks like the traditional comedy and tragedy masks; however, the masks are actually of an African king and a fallen angel.
Opened in the year 2000, this Japanese garden pays homage to Kaiserslautern's sister city of Bunkyo-ku in Japan. Its artistic placement of waterfalls, tea houses, native and non-native plants inspire visitors and impart a relaxing scene. It is one of the largest Japanese gardens in Europe and rivals the Japanese Tea Garden of San Francisco. You can find the gardens just northeast of St. Martin's Square.
The Humberg Tower, or Humberturm, is a 117-foot observation tower in the southern outskirts of the city that was built in 1899. The tower offers panoramic views of Kaiserslautern and plenty of photo opportunities. The only way to reach the viewing platform at the top of the tower is by stairs, so visitors also gain an exhilarating workout.
This church, called Stiftskirche by locals, was built in the late 13th century and is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It was originally commissioned by Barbarossa as a monastery, and it remained as such until 1565. In 1818, Protestants and Reformers joined forces in The Collegiate Church to form the Palatine Union. It is still operational today as a Protestant church in central Kaiserslautern.
