WORLD CUP COMPANION EVENTS

German history

On the pitch, it is bruising tackles and defenders who spray wayward passes. But off the playing field, what is typically "German?" The cultural history exhibition in the Germanisches Nationalmuseum promises answers, displaying artifacts from spiked helmets to wing chairs (June 2 to Oct. 3). Contemporary art in the public sphere is the subject of "Das große Rasenstück" (The Big Lawn), where the works of artists from around the world capture concepts such as grass, sports and football. Located between the main train station and Kaiserburg, the exhibition includes evocative and reflective pieces alike (May 6 to July 9). Seekers of cultural diversity will find a broad offering at Ballazzo in the K4 cultural center. After-hours parties, concerts, theater, sports, cabaret, movies, readings, fashion shows and exhibitions, some of which dare to cast a critical light on the mass phenomenon of football, stir up a lively program. Perhaps closer to home, a look at Germany's football history and a chronology of Germany's coaches from Beckenbauer to Klinsmann is a highlight at the education center at Gewerbemuseumsplatz (June 19 to July 9). A first-class attraction for the nostalgic is a sports collection in the repository of the Congress Hall (June 13 to July 23). On display are treasures such as Toni Sailer's skis, a goalie cap with a history, and the clocking equipment used at the 1972 Olympic field and track competitions. Sports is the theme of this year's city tour marathon; visitors are invited to join in the various city tours, runs and dances (June 23-25). Volksfestplatz Square is the site of the fan festival, where games are broadcast on a video wall.

SIGHTS

KAISERBURG

Auf der Burg 13, Phone 0911/244 65 90

Nuremberg's famous landmark: the castle where the rulers of the Holy Roman Empire lived at various times, and one the most important imperial palatinates of the Middle Ages.

VOLKSPARK DUTZENDTEICH

Grosse Strasse

The city's most popular recreation area, close to the World Cup stadium, the Zeppelin Field and the Nazi Documentation Center.

RESTAURANTS

ESSIGBRÄTLEIN

Weinmarkt 3, Phone 0911/22 51 31

"Spice cuisine" is Andree Köthe's word to describe the cooking at his tiny restaurant. Exquisite dishes.

MARIENTORZWINGER

Lorenzerstrasse 33, Phone 0911/274 27 84

A simple, comfortable dining room and a large, shady beer garden make this one of the city's most attractive restaurants.

PUBS

NACHTLABOR

Hutergasse 1, Phone 0911/22 62 13

Pub, club and lounge in one. A laid-back atmosphere with a soothing decor and lighting to match.

LOOM

Katharinengasse 14, Phone 0911/200 75 45

This is where the Nuremberg in-crowd meets for a super-sophisticated cocktail or two.

SHOPPING

HANDWERKERHOF

At Königstor near the main train station

Framed by the medieval town walls and towers, this miniature old town offers traditional arts and crafts along with Franconian hospitality.