Memmingen in Bavarian Swabia is even today submerged in its glorious past as you can see from it old walls, magnificent gates, and remnants of medieval architecture still visible all over. Perhaps the timeless splendor of the Allgäu Alps in the background has something to add to the spectacular beauty of this town.
The Old Town area of Memmingen is a visual delight that will immediately make you go for your camera. Surrounded by the old city walls with most of the fortifications still in place it adds tremendously to the atmosphere. The Stadtbach, a town river, adds just the right touch to remind viewers of a past that refuses to leave the area.
Within minutes of the city center is Illerbeuern. The Swabian Farmhouse Museum here is more than just a venue with exhibits. It has its place in history as the oldest open air museum in all of Bavaria.
Another must-visit would be Buxheim with more historic gems on offer. The Carthusian Monastery of Maria Saal is a tribute to 15th century architecture proclaiming the ingenious creativity of the age. A baroque remodeling sometime in the18th century is probably what gives a unique elegance to this building.
Check out the amazing wood carving of the choir stall, again a poem in baroque.
More baroque beauty is available for your viewing pleasure in Ottobeuren. The Benedictine monastery here is a masterpiece with amazing stucco and lively frescoes adorning the structure. The church organ here goes back to the 18th century and is quite famous in its own right. The view from the observation deck is not to be missed.
What might be of even more interest to you might be the Kneipp cure or the spa of Ottobeuren that lies in the valley of Westliche Gunz right next to the monastery.
If you’re visiting Memmingen in July, you’re in time for the prestigious local fair that commemorates the short reign of Wallenstein with lots of visitors. Get hold of some period costumes and join the fun. :-)
