We returned to Passau during the night and departed the SE Manon after breakfast. It was a lovely day, so lovely that we decided to stow our bags at the train station and spend a few hours kicking around Passau. It was a great decision.
Passau sits at the confluence of three rivers: the Danube, the Ilz, and the Inn. Originally an ancient Roman colony, Passau was the site of an early monastery (c. 800) and was a stronghold of the Holy Roman Empire. During the Renaissance, Passau became famous for its sword-making. Seriously. The city was largely destroyed by a fire in 1662 and was rebuilt in the Baroque style. Strategically situated at Germany's border with Austria, the city literally glows with church spires and ornate statues.
It was a steep climb up narrow cobbled streets to reach the Domplatz - the courtyard of St. Stephen's Cathedral. It was well worth the effort.
The Passaunians (Ron's word, not mine!) are particularly proud of their pipe organ. Until recently, it was the largest in the world, with 17,774 pipes.
(It is now second in size to a pipe organ in Los Angeles). The Cathedral is open to the public and offers an organ concert every afternoon.
We strolled back down to the market square and enjoyed lunch at an outdoor cafe before working our way back to the train station. One last train ride, this time to the Munich airport, and then home.
Auf wiedersehen, Deutschland.... Until we meet again!