Central Germany is home to one of Europe’s busiest airports — the Frankfurt International Airport. Most people arriving here enjoy the city’s bustling international vibe. A major industrial and commercial center, Frankfurt is a good place to shop and enjoy some modern European culture.
On the other end of the spectrum is the 850 year old town of Eisenach in Thuringia (Thüringen). It’s recommended that you spend at least two or three days in the town in order to be able to take in all the sites.
This quaint town is the birth place of the composer Johan Sebastian Bach. There are several museums and monuments that will give you more insight into the life of this classical genius. Eisenach’s most famous landmark is the Wartburg Castle located on the ridge above the town. It has been awarded the status of a World Heritage site, and is a beautifully restored example of a typical Middle Age castle.
Historically the Wartburg castle has strong links to the reformation as this is where Martin Luther hid whilst translating the New Testament into German. He took up the guise of a knight in order to be able to complete his work. In the town you can visit Luther House, a tribute to his accomplishments.
The reformation is commemorated throughout Central Germany including museums and monuments in areas throughout Saxony-Anhalt (Sachsen-Anhalt). It was the area where Martin Luther delivered some of his famous speeches speaking out against the oppression of the Catholic Church of the day.
The surrounding hills are covered by the Thuringian Forest. Here you can enjoy kilometers of hiking trails. You may even spot a wild boar as you amble along. Many health and beauty spas in the area offer luxurious pampering. After a long hike you may just decide that it’s worth spoiling yourself with a treatment. ;-)
The Hainich National Park is located in the mountainous area of Thuringia. It is beautiful stretch of continuous forest made up primarily of beech trees. Here you can spot more than 170 bird species and other small forest creatures. There are also several hiking trails in the park which can be enjoyed.
One of Central Germany’s most famous hiking trails is the Rennsteig. It can be enjoyed in seven stages. And there is a tradition whereby hikers carry a small stone in their pocket from beginning to the end, upon which it is thrown back into the water.
Saxony-Anhalt has a rich cultural heritage and is the birthplace of Handel and Telemann, both are composers from the Baroque period. The famous German poet Goethe also spent much time exploring the surrounding, majestic Harz Mountains. If visiting during the summer time you may be fortunate enough to join in on one of the many festivals that pay tribute to these cultural icons.
There are more than twelve different and themed cycling routes in Central Germany. They vary is distance and difficulty and are best enjoyed over several days. For canoeing enthusiasts you can explore the sights by paddling down any one of the region’s main rivers.
Of course, there are also many museums in the region, showcasing everything from car manufacturing to toys and historical and cultural artifacts. Many of the themed cycling or hiking routes incorporate these attractions, so it’s a great way to see the area.
All in all, Central Germany is a wonderful blend of modern industry and traditional culture and has many places of historic interest. Enjoy! :-)
