For years men have fought over the little slice of Baden-Württemberg, more specifically the town of Meckesheim. What is it about these sixteen-plus square kilometers that everyone wanted it? I’d gander to say its location — since it’s just 20 kilometers from Heidelberg in the Rhine-Neckar region, and not all that far from the Hessian border.
Meckesheim’s location is but one facet to this very historical town. And not history in the way you might think, either. Yes, the town has its grand old churches, but not all have church ruins from the 7th century. While the ruins of the St. Martin Church are exceptionally old, they were built on the site of an old Roman Watchtower — making the location even older than you might think.
All right, all right, the rest of Meckesheim’s churches are nowhere nearly as old, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t see them. I’d say the St. Anthony of Padua Church is a fine example of neo-Romanesque architecture. And you’ll fall in love with the stunning stained glass at the simply adorned St. Peter Church in the village of Mönchzell.
While we’re on the subject of visiting places, I have to tell you go see the Professor-Kehrer-Haus, a leader in Women’s Health issues. There’s also a monument to Kurfürst (Elector) Carl Theodor von Pfalz-Bayern, a leader who helped develop much of Southern Germany in the 18th century.
Since I don’t believe people should live by history alone, you really need to be outside. This is the Kraichgau, perfect for hiking and cycling until your legs feel like they’re gonna fall off. On one such trek, you should go see the ruins of Burg Zuzenhausen — an old medieval castle that nature has reclaimed.
Oh, look at that… history and outdoorsy stuff in one fell-swoop. Of course, if you’re looking for just nature, there are a couple of nature protected areas — pure unspoiled natural paradise, if you ask me. ;-)
