Kempten

Kempten, also known as Kempten (Allgäu), is a city in Bavaria, Germany. It lies on the Iller River at the northern edge of the Allgäu, about 100 kilometers southwest of Munich. With a population in the low tens of thousands, it functions as a major regional center in Swabia and is one of the oldest urban settlements in the area.

The site has its origins in Roman times, when it was established as Cambodunum. The city preserves a long ecclesiastical and cultural heritage, notably around St. Mang’s Abbey, which was founded in the 7th century. Through the Middle Ages and into modern times, Kempten developed as a market and religious center and remained an important urban presence in Bavaria.

Today, Kempten’s economy relies on services, retail, and tourism. The city hosts the University of Applied Sciences Kempten, which serves as a regional center for higher education. Its civic life is supported by a well-preserved historic core and a number of cultural institutions, drawing visitors interested in history, architecture, and regional Allgäu culture.

Notable sights include the historic old town with its medieval streets and baroque churches, and the St. Mang’s complex linked to the abbey. The Cambodunum Archaeological Park offers Roman-era ruins and an outdoor glimpse into the city’s ancient past, complementing the modern urban landscape.

Kempten is connected by rail to major Bavarian cities and is near Allgäu Airport in Memmingen, providing regional air access. It serves as a transportation and service hub for the surrounding Allgäu region.