Day 8. Spyer in the morning, Heidelburg in the afternoon

So much history that we Americans know so little of! 

Spyer is location of oldest Romanesque church inGermany, Goethe spent time writing there, & Charlemagne camped there. The first actual citizen uprising or protestation against the Roman church took place in front of this church after Martin Luther posted his 95 thesis and, thus, the origination of the term Protestant......at least according to our guide.

Trying to keep all the princes straight is a challenge, too! As it has been throughout history, wars for real estate seem to begin because of desire for power cloaked in religious beliefs. Heidelburg was our stop after lunch & is full of history back & forth between Bavarian princes, Franco emperors, and various characters in power who the common man didn't like.

Heidelburg castle is awesome! Wished we would have had more time to explore. Sonja, our guide, was full of information, just wish I could remember half of it! So, I bought a book......

Haven't reported on the cruise. We're in agreement that the food selections provide enough variety to meet our tastes, the portions are of  satisfactory size, and presentation is lovely. Have had no trouble with being on the river (yea!) and sleeping has been excellent. All important aspects of enjoying the cruise.