All right, it’s official. I need a spreadsheet program to keep all of Germany’s tourist and Pilgrimage routes straight. Just when I think I’ve seen or heard of them all — another one catches my attention.
Which one is it this time you ask? Ha ha, the jokes on me, there isn’t an utterly famous one here. It’s just simply the Berlin-Wilsnack Pilgrimage Way, which was a popular route from the 14th through 16th centuries.
You’d probably rather hear what’s to see and do along the route; and not how it fell out of favor after the Reformation swept its way through Germany in the 16th century. Right? Too late. I just told you. ;-)
Technically, this pilgrimage route starts at either the Holy Spirit Hospital or the Marienkirche in Berlin-Mitte and ends at the Miracle of the Blood in Bad Wilsnack (which is just a few kilometers west of Kyritz). The church in Kyritz that the pilgrims were coming to see here is the 10th century church of St. Mary’s (check out the organ!).
The church itself is kinda cool looking and has a Staffelgiebel. Pay attention — you never know when you can answer a Jeopardy question with this. A Staffelgiebel is one of those “step looking things” on the top of medieval and Renaissance style buildings.
Another throwback to the days of the Middle Ages in Kyritz is the Franziskanerkloster (try saying that fast 5 times). The monastery itself was dissolved after the Reformation in the 16th century but, the church still stands. Plus, its monastery garden is where the Kyritz Music Fest is held; along with classical concerts and even book readings.
A little after the end of medieval life, villagers built many of the framework homes that you’ll find right in the City Center. Check out the Kyritz Community Center that’s in one from 1682.
More modern culture can be found at the Lügenmuseum (Lie Museum) with a huge collection of “off the wall” art. You’ll also find lots of folks over at the Kyritzer Seenkette, a chain of lakes that are always great for a good time.
Actually, all of Kyritz is a good time. This is why I’m not holding it against the town that they got me once again with a tourist route.
