Franconia (Franken) is a region in Southern Germany. The majority of it is found in the state of Bavaria (Bayern), with its borders overlapping slightly into Baden Württemberg, Hessen, and Thuringia (Thüringen). The two largest cities found in Franconia are Nürnberg and Würzburg.
The origins of Franconia date back to the 1500's. It was a political district for the German nation. In the early 1900's, the region was split, thereby losing its political importance. Today, however, Franconia is still recognized for (1) its common culture and history; (2) its residents calling themselves "Franconians;" (3) its specific dialect; (4) its many organizations which claim their belonging through displaying Franconian flags.
The Franconia region is known for its Nürnberger Bratwurst. The Franconians enjoy their bratwurst grilled, pan fried, served on a Brötchen (Roll) as a snack, and also cooked in a vinegar broth (Blauen Zipfel).
As with many other regions in Germany, there are many meat dishes in Franconian cooking. Particularly loved are pork dishes. With the meat dishes are usually served a mixed salad and Klöße (potato dumplings), the classic Franconian side dishes.
Vegetables are usually only served as side dishes. The most common are Sauerkraut, white cabbage, red cabbage, turnips, potatoes, asparagus, and carrots.
Franconia is also known for its Nürnberger Lebkuchen (Gingerbread). From the end of August through the winter months, the Lebkuchen is baked for the Christmas season. It is enjoyed with Glühwein in Nürnberg.
Also known as "Beer-Franconia" (Bierfranken), the region has the highest density of breweries in all of Europe. Over 400 small breweries are found here.
Franconia has a 1200 year tradition in wine making. The wine region is in the northwestern part of Franconia, with over 15,000 acres of land devoted to the wine industry.
A list of popular foods and dishes in Franconia are listed below.
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