A chunk of the Upper Swabian Baroque Route (Oberschwäbische Barockstraße) brings you right through the town of Mengen. What does that mean to you? Nothing!
Just kidding! It means a lot if you’re into this sort of thing.
After Germany’s Thirty Years’ War in the mid-17th century, many German towns were totally devastated and/or leveled. So, when the war ended, residents of many towns rebuilt. The intricate, ornate style of what would become the “Baroque” period was what was popular at the time.
Yes, yes, the history lesson leads us to the many Baroque buildings that call Mengen home. Just follow the green and yellow Cherub signs that lead the way.
Not all of Mengen in this part of Upper Swabia is of a Baroque design, though. Long before those days, the Romans built the Castellet Ennetach, which is now known as the Mansion Rustica. It wasn’t until 1876 that a mosaic of Medusa was found after being covered for more than a millenia and a half.
Other works of art (including stuccos and frescoes) are at the Tower of St. Ulrich (circa 15th century) and the Liebfrauenkirche, a Gothic basilica built in 1290.
That’s another time period that deserves special attention, the Middle Ages. Ohhh, yeah! Come see the 11th/12th century Martinskirche at the City Center and the town’s oldest building is now a Notary Office — but, has stood here since 1233.
That’s much older than most of the half-timbered building you might find anywhere else. I’d say that was pretty cool.
Speaking of those half-timbered gems, Mengen’s Heimatmuseum (Local History Museum) is located in one from the 1600’s. Not to be confused with Mengen’s Roman Museum with artifacts from the time; and some from the Bronze Age.
Wow, there sure is a lot to see here in the Danube Valley. I think I’d follow that little Cherub baby anywhere. For someone so young, he sure know how to find the best places; and in this case — Mengen is it.
