There are two things that will really make you remember Linnich. The first being its long history dating back to at least the days of the Romans (though, the town is filled with medieval churches) and its traditional festivals and city celebrations. It’s also famous for its painted glass, with a chance to see how it’s made at the glass museum.
OK, so maybe that makes this town in North Rhine-Westphalia famous for at least three things. ;-)
It is hard to summarize all of Linnich’s history, but if we do it by time period it may make it easier to go see those highlights from your favorite time period.
In 20th century history, you’ll find a memorial dedicated to the Linnich Synagogue that once stood here for a few hundred years, until November 1938. There’s also an old Jewish Cemetery located in the neighborhood of Boslar.
Further back in time (in 1779) Linnich dedicated a stone cross, known as Hubertuskreuz, for a battle that took place in November 1444. Almost 500 years later (to the day!) the cross was damaged (by a tank) when another battle took place here in November 1944! :-)
Even older are many churches that date back to the days of the Middle Ages. Old Village Church was built over an even older Romanesque church and now holds many concerts, lectures, and book readings. You’ll also find an 11th century church (St. Margarethe) in the neighborhood of Kofferen. But, it’s the Parish Church Martinus that’s the most famous. St. Martinus has intricate alter carvings from the early 16th century, but the church itself is much older having been built in the 12th; on top of an 8th century original.
If you’re lucky to be here on the 1st Monday in December, then you’ll enjoy the Andreas Market. Since 1571, Linnich has made this livestock market even better with plenty of local Rhenish food (potato pancakes) and wine.
Culture Week, held every other year, is another chance to eat, drink, and be merry; then eat and drink more!
You can still drink plenty, even if there’s no festival going on, as there’s a great local brewery and distillery.
Oh, guess that will make four things that make Linnich stand out…
