In the Wetterau, between the Vogelsberg and the Taunus, lie the six villages of Liedhecken, Nieder-Florstadt, Nieder-Mockstadt, Ober-Florstadt, Staden, and Stammheim. Collectively they’re just simply known as Florstadt.
Whatever name you choose to call them will seem kind of insignificant compared to the villages history, some of which spans thousands of years!
If you’re following the German scenic route Deutsche Limes-Straße, perhaps you’ve found yourself in Florstadt without even realizing it. Travelers following in the footsteps of the Romans are here to see what was once the 1st century A.D. Kastell Ober-Florstadt. A treasure trove of Roman coins were found here, which are now on display at the Wetterau Museum in neighboring Friedberg.
Fans of the medieval will love it here in Florstadt, too. In Nieder-Mockstadt there’s a 12th century parish church, in Liedhecken one from the 13th century. And no medieval town is ever fully dressed without a castle — so the fact that here are three, Florstadt’s dressed to the nines! ;-)
In the village of Staden, the original Löwsches Schloss is now a community center, the Castle Stammheim (in the village of the same name) is private property, but you can get some great photos of this 16th century burg. And some imagination is required when visiting the ruins of the 12th century moated Burg Staden; which is also known as Burg Ysenburg.
Other sightseeing around these villages include crossing the 17th century Seufzerbrücke, a half-timbered bridge that was the final walk of those poor folks about to meet the executioner.
There’s also the Saalbau Museum, filled with all sorts of art exhibitions, and even an early settlement tumulus a.k.a. a prehistoric grave hill.
For a more fun look at Florstadt there’s music & dancing on Oldies’ Night and torch lit walks through the Forest on cool December evenings. During the warmer months there are Fairytale Tours and Blues concerts in the park.
Besides the Romans on the German Limes Road, Florstadt is also on the Hessian Cycle Path R4 and along an Ecological Trail. So, you know what that means… great biking trails and awesome hiking paths. It sure is nice in the Wetterau! :-)
