Visitors have been crossing the Lahn Bridge for over 600 years in order to enter the beguiling town of Limburg an der Lahn. A 13th century traveler visiting the modern town would certainly feel right at home in this untouched-by-time gem along the Lahn River.
A cathedral that more closely resembles a candy-covered gingerbread house is one of the main attractions. The 13th century Limburg Cathedral sits on a rocky hill watching over the town. This Romanesque structure’s interior boasts at least as much beauty as its exterior. It is covered in frescoes that date back to the 1200s.
The Old Town (Altstadt) is another historical treasure. Some of the timber houses also date back to the 13th century, along with the more “modern” ones going back to the 19th. Be sure not to miss the Haus der sieben Laster (House of the Seven Vices) which is adorned with intricate carvings depicting the seven deadly sins.
Wandering through the picturesque streets will also bring you to the Werner-Senger-Haus, one of the oldest in the town. There are also many lovely houses in the old fish market district. All these amazing buildings are over 800 years old and were restored to their former glory in the 1970s.
There are plenty of reminders of the modern world in Limburg. There’s a very active theater community, most notably is a cabaret troupe called “Thing” which bases itself here. In addition to cabaret, it is possible to see musical performances ranging from the French vocal music of chanson to jazz and folk-rock. The Limburg Cathedral is also home to a well-known boys’ choir, the Limburger Domsingknaben.
To visit Limburg an der Lahn is to witness a miracle of historical integrity and a strong desire to protect and preserve the jewels of the past while enjoying the comforts of modernity.
