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This mid-17th-century view of Passau resents a detailed copper-engraved depiction of the historic city, located at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn, and Ilz.

The view captures Passau’s impressive architecture, showing a fortified city nestled between hills and rivers, with prominent ecclesiastical and secular buildings. At the upper right, "B" marks Oberhausen (Upper House), representing the hilltop fortress dominating the city's skyline. The spires of the Cathedral of St. Stephen, noted as "D" (Der Dom), are central, highlighting the city’s religious importance. To the right of the cathedral lies the historic town with its well-organized buildings. The engraving also depicts smaller churches and religious institutions, such as "H," the Capuchin Monastery, and "G," the Maria Hilf Monastery. The waterways, labeled "Donau flu" (Danube), emphasize Passau’s strategic position as a hub of trade and transportation. 

Passau, once known as Batavis, owes its early development to its strategic location. The site was first settled by the Celts, but its prominence grew during the Roman era, when it became a military outpost. By the 2nd century AD, the settlement was fortified as Castra Batava, protecting the borders of the Roman Empire from Germanic invasions. This location, where major rivers converge, facilitated its role as a crossroads for military and commercial routes. 

The city became an important ecclesiastical center in the 5th century when the Christianization of the region took root. By 739 AD, Passau had become a bishopric, and the influence of the Church shaped the city's medieval identity. The bishops of Passau wielded both spiritual and secular power, leading the city to prosper in the Middle Ages. Trade, particularly along the Danube, transformed Passau into a significant commercial hub by the 12th century, bringing in wealth that would fund the construction of religious institutions, including the famed Cathedral of St. Stephen. 

During the 13th and 14th centuries, the city expanded under the leadership of its prince-bishops, who controlled vast territories. The construction of the Gothic cathedral and other major buildings contributed to Passau's architectural splendor. The city became known for its art and craftsmanship, particularly in sword and blade making, which was renowned throughout Europe. 

The Reformation in the 16th century and the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) significantly impacted Passau. While the city remained staunchly Catholic, it became a refuge for those fleeing Protestant regions. The wars, however, brought devastation to Passau, with sieges and destruction affecting its economy and infrastructure. By the time this view was created, the city was in a phase of reconstruction, balancing its past ecclesiastical glory with the ongoing challenges of political and religious strife. The engraving reflects a city that, despite these upheavals, retained its key role as a fortified, religious, and commercial center.

Passau’s rich history up to the mid-17th century is marked by its transformation from a Roman outpost into a powerful prince-bishopric, its strategic location along Europe's major rivers, and its survival of wars and religious turmoil.