European churches can be austere, but not so German baroque. Their exteriors may be restrained, but their interiors are jaw-droppingly exuberant, a riot of creamcake stucco, gilded cherubs and gesticulating saints. The intended effect is a vision of paradise on earth.  

Back in the 18th century, Wurzburg was ruled by Prince-Bishops. Keen to impress the wider world with their wealth and power, they commissioned architect Balthasar Neumann to create this massive showstopper of a palace, a German Versailles, with all its marble and marquetry, mirrors and frescos, and a magnificent staircase.