Marburg is a cute University town in Hessen. It is chiefly known for its Protestant university, founded in 1527 by Philip of Hesse. Marburg grew in the 12th century around a castle, Marc's Burg, it was chartered in 1227 and served as the residence of the landgraves of Hesse. Marburg became part of the Prussian province of Hesse-Nassau in 1866.

The castle, which still dominates the picturesque city, was the scene of the famous Marburg Colloquy, held (1529) under the auspices of Philip of Hesse; it failed to bring about agreement between Luther and Melanchthon on the one side and Zwingli on the other.

St. Elizabeth of Hungary is buried in the fine Gothic church (13th–14th cent.) dedicated to her; the remains of Field Marshal Hindenburg and of Frederick William I and Frederick II of Prussia were transferred to the church soon after World War II.

Other highlights include the Deutsche Ritterorden ("Order of Teutonic Knights"), The Old town, the University and the Town Hall.