I’ll tell ya, that Thirty Years’ War in 17th century German history was something else. If you’ve read many pages here on MyGermanCity.com you might have noticed that plenty German cities, towns, and villages were totally ransacked, leveled, destroyed, and even abandoned during this time from 1618-1648.
This widespread destruction was the norm; and the town of Falkenstein (Vogtland) in Saxony was no different.
However, the textile industry saved this grand town giving it a much needed boost to the local economy.
Oh, I think I just channeled my history professor cousin there for a second. He would be so proud, I think? ;-)
I mention all this because it’s a good set up to what you’ll learn at this Falkenstein’s Heimatmuseum, located at Schlossplatz 1. It’s only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm-5pm so prepare accordingly.
And because this started as an educational page, I’ll continue (more lessons in the G-ZINE, our newsletter). In German a Heimatmuseum is a local history museum; and Samstag is Saturday & Sonntag is Sunday.
There you go, feeling like a true German yet? I know I am. ;-)
Here’s another German word for you: Tierpark. That’s an animal game park, for which Falkenstein has one with everything from camels to bears. It’s open Montag bis Sonntag (that’s Monday to Sunday) from 10am-6pm.
No big deal if you’re not fluent in German yet. At Falkenstein’s festivals everyone speaks the same language — fun! Just remember the Falkensteiner Street Festival is in June, the Wine Festival is in August, and the Autumn Fair is on the 1st weekend of October.
Just when I thought the history stuff was over and we could kick back with some fun, I remembered a few more things to see here.
Like what? Oh, how about the historic Town Hall, the 19th century Holy Cross Church, and the old Hospital. There was even a 13th century castle here known as Valkenstein.
Plus, at the local cemetery there’s a memorial to the town’s Jewish residents & resistance fighters, and a Soviet Cemetery is in town, too.
I guess I started this page out educational, and I guess I’m ending it that way, too. On second thought, it’s Sonntag and the Tierpark is open. Do you think they’ll let us ride the camel? ;-)
