Schweinfurt is on the easterly end of the Fränkisches Weinland, franconian wine country. All along the river are lovely little towns which are home to vineyards and winefests. There are cycle and hiking routes in the area and canooing and boat hire available to spend time on the river too.
About 100km downriver of Schweinfurt (but closer to 45km as the crow flies), lies Würzburg. The proximity and importance of wine is very apparent throughout the old town. Not only can you see the vineyards from in front of one of the main churches, but many of the houses along the streets in the old town are inns associated with different winegrowers. They would have been each vineyard’s sales outlet.
One of the dominant buildings in the high street is the Juliusspital. It is a hospital and almshouse founded by Prince-Bishop Julius Echter in 1576. It was always a charitable foundation that funded its activities from a winery. Both the hospital and the winery remain active.
Much of the town is on the north side of the river, however a significant defence structure lies south of the river, the Marienberg Fortress. From the first celtic refuge castle from 1,000 BCE, the first of the current buildings was built in 1201, with significant changes and alterations in the 17th century. The old bridge crossing the Main to reach it is now pedestrianised and offers views up and down the river.
Along any river there are opportunities to use the flowing water for commerce. A mill originally built for traditional flour milling has now been converted into a hydro-electric power station. The bulk of the building has been converted into a restaurant and wine bar. Its location directly alongside the old bridge gives the restaurateur the opportunity to sell wine to passers by on the bridge.
A regular summer activity for locals and visitors: Wine on the Main.
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