The town of Dannstadt-Schauernheim has a name that’s about as big as the town itself. Really, considering that Dannstadt-Schauernheim is not even sixteen square kilometers.
Just so you know, Dannstadt is the one that’s more populated. And combined the entire town doesn’t even have 7,000 people living here.
Founded by the Franks back in the Middle Ages, the town of Dannstadt-Schauernheim today is quite different from during their hay days. I’m pretty sure those medieval guys would appreciate a good time, just as you will during the Frühlingsfest (Spring Festival) and the Walpurgisnacht and Maifeier.
Early June is the yearly religious Pfarrfest, and the month ends with a terrific Summer Festival. Don’t worry, the drinking and dancing doesn’t end here. Mid-July brings thousands of people to the Bauernmarkt, and then the Brunnenfest (Fountain Festival) is just another reason for all sorts of merrymaking.
The fountain in the center of town, BTW, is the Ochs- und Eselbrunnen (Ox & Donkey Wells). I know, it takes a lot of imagination to discover the ox and the donkey. Still, it’s a cutesy piece of art, and it’s functional too.
Partygoing is still in full swing as the seasons turn to the Fall, as October is when Dannstadt holds its church festival (known as the Kerwe). Then come the Advent Season concerts followed by the obligatory Christmas Market.
I wouldn’t get upset if you’re not able to make it to one of Dannstadt-Schauernheim’s markets or festivals. You could take the Kunst-Tour; a tour that will take you to all of the town’s many sculptures and pieces of art. One is called the Gaudiwurm; another is known as the Mosaic Zielstreben, followed by one that looks like a stork (it’s supposed to); and then over to the Sagenbrunnen.
As you’re seeing all the art, make sure you look around at all the old buildings, many of which are located on Hauptstraße. Just so you know, there’s a 14th century church (now Protestant) at Langstraße 23, and the Town Hall is at Langstraße 25. Quite a charming spot considering the framework houses around here.
The oldest building of them all is the St. Leo der Große Church, dating back to the 11th century. And then there’s the St. Petrus Church — just a tad bit younger having been built in 1179.
You know what? Dannstadt-Schauernheim might have a name that’s as big as itself — but it’s even bigger on so much more.
