Villa Concordia

Villa Concordia blends baroque architecture with contemporary art at one of Bamberg’s finest riverside spots. The artists’ house sits in the island city right on the left branch of the Regnitz—between bridges, towpaths and historic lanes. Since 1997 the International Artists’ House has supported Visual Arts, Literature and Music with residencies and regularly opens its programme to the public. [1][2]

Highlights

Baroque water‑villa (1716–1722): A representative residence commissioned by Ignaz Tobias Böttinger, built on the Regnitz; a key baroque landmark in Bamberg. [1][4]
Three‑discipline profile: Fellows in Visual Arts, Literature and Music work and present here—note that the villa is not a private rental venue. [2][5]
Waterside viewpoints: The most iconic view is from the opposite bank (Mühlwörth)—perfect for full façades with tower and reflections. [3]

History in brief

The villa was built 1716–1722 as the second major project of court official Ignaz Tobias Böttinger; his first town palace, the Böttingerhaus, stands in Judenstraße. The riverside location still shapes its effect today: architecture and water form a compact ensemble characteristic of the island city. [1][4]

In 1997 the Free State of Bavaria founded the Internationales Künstlerhaus Villa Concordia, giving the building a use that suits the place: promoting the arts and international cultural exchange. Each year artists from Germany and one partner country are invited for work residencies. [2]

Architecture & atmosphere

Expect baroque façades, a small tower, and a clear layout between courtyard and riverfront. At close range you notice profiles, window bays and the orientation towards the water. The historical shell provides a calm frame for a lively programme of exhibitions, readings and concerts. [1][2]

The sequence of spaces and the bond with the river create shifting sightlines—from the courtyard to the Regnitz, across bridges and towards the fishermen’s row of “Klein Venedig.” Look for masonry joints, cornices and portal details to appreciate the craftsmanship, while experiencing the fellows’ contemporary work. [1][3]

Today: International Artists’ House

The three‑discipline house offers selected artists time and space to live and work. There is no open application; selection is made by a curatorial board, and presentations focus on current and former fellows. The goal is to make new art visible and foster cultural exchange. [2]

For visitors this means: opening hours follow the programme. The villa opens for events; during exhibitions the gallery is usually open on weekends 11:00–16:00, free admission—please check current notices on the website. [6][7]

Plan your visit

Address: Concordiastraße 28, 96049 Bamberg. Riverside in the island city; coordinates approx. 49.88806 N, 10.88861 E. [6][8]
Programme & access: Events and exhibitions are published on an ongoing basis; consult the villa’s programme and FAQ. The venue is not available for private rentals. [2][5][7]
Photo tip: For full views, head to the opposite bank at Mühlwörth; small shifts along the bridges emphasise proportions and reflections. [3]

Nearby

An den Kranen – former harbour square with island‑city views.
Obere Brücke – stone bridge with Crucifixion group.
Old Town Hall – landmark over the Regnitz.
Klein Venedig – fishermen’s houses on the river.
Schleuse 100 – historic lock on the old canal.

About this page: editorial overview based on official and tourism sources; focus on history, architecture and programme. Last reviewed 2025-11-05.

Villa Concordia – International Artists’ House on the Regnitz

Villa Concordia

Highlights

History in brief

Architecture & atmosphere

Today: International Artists’ House

Plan your visit

Nearby

Sources