Thank You!

December 24th, 2007

Thank you very, very much for your contribution. It will help expanding the content available at MyGermanCity.com to an extend that it attracts more visitors from all over the world, providing them with high quality information about this amazing country.

Again, thank you.

My best,
Marcus

Ortenaukreis Is The Coolest Part Of The Black Forest

December 22nd, 2007

This is good that you arrived here on this page, because the Ortenaukreis in the state of Baden-Württemberg is, for me, the most beautiful, the most astonishing district we have in Germany.

Ortenaukreis Map

Map of the Ortenaukreis

Towns & Villages in the Ortenaukreis

Ever heard of Rust? That’s where Germany’s largest Amusement Park, Europa-Park, is. Or what about Bad Peterstal? This town deep in the Black Forest has one of the cleanest natural water sources. Or perhaps you simply like city flair then you’ll want to explore Offenburg, the largest town in this district.

Not only does this district go along the French border, it comprises of a good deal of the best the Black Forest has to offer. In other words, if you love forests, nature reserves, mountains, fresh air, smiling people,and all that, then you really should put this district to your itinerary.

Go for it! :-)

Groß-Gerau District — From Farming To Prosperity

December 21st, 2007

Being very close to Frankfurt am Main and the Frankfurt International Airport, the Groß-Gerau district in the state of Hesse became worldwide popular for the Opel factories in Rüsselsheim — as it became a sister company of General Motors.

Groß-Gerau District Map

Map of the Groß-Gerau District

Explore this district and see that agriculture played an important role here. Nowadays though it is more an industrial place. It became important as it brings economic prosperity and sets cultural accents.

I should even say that it is about 1,100 years old. In the year 910 the Gerauer Mark were founded, an area which comprised of 15 villages and small townships.

Here’s what you can do… when you get off the airplane (usually at Frankfurt International Airport; which is in the north-east corner of this very Groß-Gerau district), go take a look at those factories in Rüsselsheim. Or spend some time in Mörfelden-Walldorf including a walk through the nature reserve Mönchsbruch.

Or enjoy your time in one of the municipalities and their quietness and native Hessian way of life.

Go for it! :-)

Aalen — Swabian Jurassic Geological Region

December 21st, 2007

Aalen is a town located in the middle of South Germany, in the eastern part of the wonderful state Baden-Württemberg, in a district called Ostalbkreis.

The Ellwanger Berge are nearby, where you can take a nice, relaxing walk, or even climb up some mountains. The Swabian Alb (Schwäbische Alb) is also very close, and the river Kocher as well, which is surrounded by a lot of plants.

The market place is a charming site in the town which hosts a grand market on every Wednesday and Friday. It has been carrying the tradition of markets from the time of 1809.

The Protestant City Church is another wonderful site which has seen more than a few ups and downs. It was built in 1340 and being destructed twice before coming fully to the fore.

The Fire Brigade Square, which is an old construction, was built after a severe fire which broke out in 1865 in the town.

The colorful rain tree avenue in the heart of the town is an eye-catching small tree which has been decorated with dazzling lights and sparkling festoons.

The City Tower is another attractive place which was built from the intention to save the city from the enemies in 1800. The Old Town hall with spy tower is an imposing tall building which was built in the 14th century and served as the town hall till the early 19th century.

You could also hit upon the Jurassic Museum which has been placed here in 1977. Or the Limesmuseum, which shows pieces from the town’s first years.

The Torhaus is also an interesting building. It now contains pubs, restaurants and other shopping facilities.

Pforzheim — Gateway To The Black Forest

December 20th, 2007

When you visit Pforzheim you’ll see gold, jewelry and watches all over the place. Because of this it’s also called the Golden City. (You may want to start your city journey at the Jewelry Museum — make sense, huh?)

Being an urban district in the state of Baden-Württemberg, it bore the brunt of the vicious World War II and was bombed a number of times during that period.

Notwithstanding its thorny past, this city has much to offer with its exceptional amalgamation of gold, high technology and design.

Wallberg hill is well-liked not only by locals even people from the far-off places come to see it. Its dazzling views over the city coupled with the romantic atmosphere, make it a heaven for travelers, especially at night.

Reuchlinhaus Arts Center, situated in Pforzheim’s municipal park, is an exceptional sort of cultural forum. Created somewhere in the mid-20th century, it is first and foremost a memorial to the city’s most celebrated and significant son, the humanist Johannes Reuchlin.

The protestant fortress and idealistic church of St. Michael, situated well on top of the city center, is city’s most significant architectural testimonial. The church almost took the shape of the last resting position of the protestant line of the Margraves of Baden from 1535 onwards.

From April to October in the Alpine Garden, you can witness over 100,000 plants from around the world. During that time of the year, gardens are at their most gorgeous look with lots of flowering around.

And if you’re love animals, then the Pforzheim Wildlife Park, on the southern outskirts of the city, must be on your itinirary since it’s well-loved by the kids and open all year round. There, you can see a variety of animals together with some very rare mammals and birds. :-)

Relaxation and watching other people? Head over to the Enzauen Park. It is an extremely admired leisure area where you can get pleasure from a wide range of leisure and sporting activities.

Heilbronn — Versatile City With Traditions

December 19th, 2007

Heilbronn is termed as the blend of Swabian assiduity and Franconian savoir vivre by means of multi-ethnic, tolerant and liberal people who are not only aware of rituals but also flexible towards the future.

It is an urban district in north Baden-Württemberg and entrenched in a stunning landscape and amalgamated by nature, culture and history. It is deeply seated in hills and valleys, widespread vineyards, as well as picturesque views and buildings.

The Neckar River served as a helping hand to the people over time and virtually transformed the city. In the middle ages, trade and opulence flourished like never before. In later years, Heilbronn led the way in the trade uprising in Germany.

Nowadays, it’s a sought-after site for inventive ventures.

The U.S. troops had made Heilbronn as their base station since 1951 and made use of barracks built prior to World War II. And in 2005/06, it got selected as the first UNICEF children’s city in Germany which was truly a worth savoring moment for it.

Now that we’ve covered the historical part, let’s take a look at what’s going on here today

The city is full of the events. For example, the Pferdemarkt (Horse Market) is taking place in February where more than 100,000 people gather to find a horse, or just to watch other people and take a break from everyday’s work.

When you’re here in the month of May, there’s the Trollinger marathon going on. Or what about July, when the Gaffenberg carnival and the Unterländer Volksfest enthralls the city until August.

HA! No, we’re not finished yet… September is another time to celebrate with the Heilbronner Weindorf (yup, to drink some good wine!), and also October when they’re all set to have fun at the Hafenmarkt.

Wow! One more… You really have to see the Christmas Market here. It takes place for four weeks, from the end of November until, yup, Christmas in December. It shall be located in downtown near the Kilianskirche.

Alright, enough events. Now to some photogenic buildings…

The Harbor market tower and the Haus Zehender at the market square are places to have a look at. The famous Käthchenhaus at the market square and next to it, the City Hall with its historic astronomic clock are also sites you really don’t wanna miss.

Kilianskirche, a Protestant church, is a highly acclaimed site as the tower from the early Renaissance makes the insignia of the city. On the other hand, the Deutschordensmünster St.-Peter-und-Paul is a Catholic Church which is equally important. Besides beautiful ornaments inside, it has a stunning façade outside, in a warm light-brown color.

Other tourist friendly sites include the Ehrenfriedhof — a graveyard that stands for the sufferers of the air raid on December 4, 1944 while the Robert Mayer Memorial in the market place serves the same purpose.

Uh, oh, and of course you’ll find countless restaurants and pubs to enjoy the ride and get some energy back. ;-)

Aachen District Means Back To Nature!

December 19th, 2007

The Aachen District is where people think, act and live European. Close to the border of the Netherlands and Belgium, this district in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, represents not only a fostered and cultivated culture, it also offers countless recreational opportunities for every taste.

Aachen District Map

Map of the Aachen District

You’ll find medieval castles and historical townships here in this district, and the coal mining industry had its places throughout this area, too.

Oh, and carnival is an important subject here, too. It is being celebrated by hundreds of thousands of people every year (in February) who stand along the streets to catch some sweets and are happily kissing around. :-)

Aiming for nature? Take a trip to the Rursee, Germany’s second largest artificial lake. Or what about the Eifel, one of the largest nature reserves here in this country enjoyed by countless people every year. You’ll be amazed by its diversity in animal life and magnificent landscape!

Lastly, wanna know which one my favorite is? Monschau. :-)

Bodensee District — Camping, Biking, Cruising

December 18th, 2007

The Bodensee District is located north Lake Constance (which is the Eglish name for the Bodensee), in the south of the state of Baden-Württemberg.

Below are its towns and villages…

Bodensee District Map

Map of the Bodensee District

Towns & Villages in the Bodensee District

  • Bermatingen
  • Daisendorf
  • Deggenhausertal
  • Eriskirch
  • Frickingen
  • Friedrichshafen
  • Hagnau (Bodensee)
  • Heiligenberg

Of course, the main touristic attraction in this district is, by far, Lake Constance. But there’s a lot more to be found…

For example, there exist a Jubiläumsweg with 6 etappes. It leads to a set of less well-known and frequently unconsidered art-historical sights. (There are plates marking this path, bearing the title Jubiläumsweg Bodensee.)

Other attractions are camping, which is offered at countless towns and villages along Lake Constance as well as other spots that invite to it. Same holds true for bike tour courses.

Last but not least, take advantage of river cruises that are offered along Lake Constance and water sport.

Ostalbkreis — On The Traces Of Romans And Staufen

December 13th, 2007

The Ostalbkreis in the state of Baden-Württemberg has a very varied and intact natural landscape, its versatile culture and its historical cities, towns and villages.

Ostalbkreis Map

Map of the Ostalbkreis

Towns & Villages in the Ostalbkreis

Explore this district on the traces of the Romans along the limes, explore its distinctive culture, take advantage of a bike tour through pure South-German nature, and enjoy an evening concert of an internationally renowned jazz or church music artist.

In short, the concept of the appraised “Holidays in Swabian” makes sense here. Go for it! :-)

Böblingen District Is Mercedes And Porsche Land

December 12th, 2007

The Böblingen District is where Daimler (Mercedes Benz) has its Headquarters, in Sindelfingen. Ever been there? It’s incredibly huge! And you’ll see Mercedes driving everywhere there.

Porsche is also very close…

Böblingen District Map

Map of the Böblingen District

Of course, not only German cars are to be found here but also an astonishing beautiful country full of pure nature, inviting to cycling and walking tours.

And countless castles and palaces give you an idea of what was going on in the past 2,000+ years. (As a matter of fact, they found out that first colonizations took place approx. 25,000 years ago!)

And for wellness, several health centers, spas and nature baths give you the opportunity to relax and recover from everyday work.

Enjoy! :-)

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