Konstanz

Constance (Constanza), the largest city on the shores of Lake Constance, is an important starting point and crossroads for Jacobean routes in the heart of Europe. Situated at the border between Germany and Switzerland, it is one of the main branches of the Via Jacobi. Its old town (Altstadt), which survived intact during World War II, is a medieval maze of charming streets. For pilgrims, a visit to its majestic Cathedral (Münster) is a spiritual milestone. The city is world-famous for hosting the Council of Constance in the 15th century. Starting the pilgrimage here is starting from a vibrant, university town with great cultural wealth. Pilgrims can enjoy a stroll along the harbour, contemplate the Imperia statue or cross into Switzerland's Kreuzlingen. It's an opening route that unites Germany's history with Swiss pilgrim tradition, a monumental and lively prologue for the alpine journey.