Hof has never been a residence and could not count on special princely favor. However, in the city of trade, crafts, and industry, its citizens have achieved great accomplishments and established significant intellectual, cultural, and artistic institutions. Located at an important hub of transportation in the middle of Germany and Europe, Hof has never made history, yet it has often been at the center of events. Many prominent figures of their time visited Hof, but not all left a mark that benefited the city. The author takes his readers on a varied journey through the highs and lows of the city's history.