Today Gau-Algesheim is part of the Rhineland-Palatinate in Germany. Had you been here at the turn of the 19th century — you’d know it as part of the Holy Roman Empire.
Not that it matters much today — it’s just I’m reminded of Gau-Algesheim’s churches. Like the Pfarrkirche (Parish Church) Sts. Cosmas & Damian. It was once a Gothic church, but has a Baroque Pieta, and centuries old graves inside.
The Chapel on Laurenziberg that you see today was built in 1707 in the popular Baroque style of its day — but there’s been a religious site here since the 6th or 7th century.
That’s like twice as old as Schloss Ardeck, built in 1112. Today the castle houses the Fahrradmuseum (Bicycle Museum), and they do rent out rooms for parties and other events.
Gau-Algesheim’s Rathaus (Town Hall) is also a Baroque building that was originally a Gothic one. In fact, the building you’re seeing today was destroyed during the Thirty Years’ War — but that didn’t stop residents from rebuilding.
What other goodies will you find in Gau-Algesheim? Take the Wine & Panorama Trail to find out. Yes, wine — they’ve been growing grapes for vino here since 766 — and the 2.5km trail with 15 panels will tell you all about it.
Follow the 15 panels of the Geoökologische Erlebnispfad to learn about Gau-Algesheim’s plants and animals.
Forget it — I’m more interested in the Kerb & Alagastmarkt on the 2nd weekend of August. No, the Castle Festival at the end of August. Can’t decide… maybe I should do both?
Rather hold out for the wine? The Wine Festival is on the second weekend of October — and the obligatory Christmas Market comes along in…? Yup, December. Have some mulled wine there — you’ll love it.
I guess I better tell you about Gau-Algesheim’s Graulturm — a Gothic tower from 1332 (and where you pick up the start of the Geoökologische trail). You’ll find a Jewish Cemetery, and a Gothic “Christ In Majesty” mandorla.
Perhaps some of you’d rather picnic out on the Laurenziberg, or find a quiet hiking or biking trail. All good things. So whatever you choose you’re not gonna go wrong in Gau-Algesheim.
