Mandelbachtal when translated to English means Almond Brook; and it’s quite a fitting name for this town in Saarland (near the French border) because of its many almond trees that dot the countryside.
But the delicious nut isn’t the only reason why this place is so famous. Many artifacts from Celtic days that were found here are now on display at the Prehistoric Museum in nearby Saarbrücken.
For more local Mandelbachtal history, look no further than the Village Museum.
But, the biggest attraction to Mandelbachtal is the Monastery Gräfinthal. Its 13th century monastic church is on the famous Jacob’s Way (a stopover for pious pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela in Spain). It’s also the final resting place of 18 year old Princess Anna Leszczyńska, the daughter of an 18th century Polish king. Every summer since 1932 the monastery has held amateur plays in its outdoor theater.
The Ommersheimer Weiher is also pretty popular. Take a walk along the banks of the water, enjoy a game of table tennis, football (soccer), miniature golf, or let the kids run around the playground. There’s also a cafe, restaurant, and beer garden.
Haus Lochfeld is also a nifty place to visit in Mandelbachtal. This turn of the 20th century farm has its own rose garden and herb garden; but, no beer garden. ;-)
The town of Mandelbachtal is also famous for (believe it or not) Iceland horses and many horse farms can be found throughout the area. Maybe the steeds like almonds?
Buy some yourself at the town’s Weekly Market (held on Tuesdays) or try some other local specialties at the Village Celebration on the 1st weekend in July. The Summer Garden Celebration is just another reason to eat and then eat some more.
Or, maybe enjoy a good bottle of wine since you’re in-between the Moselle and Palatinate regions. Try to find a good one that will pair nicely with Mandelbachtal’s almonds!
