What a wonderful week. Mengkofen in the heart of Lower Bavaria, means more like a religious journey because of all the churches.
That’s not to say that’s all there is to Mengkofen; that’s hardly the case. But, let’s start there, all right?
Mengkofen is proud of its churches, and rightfully so. The Church of St. George (built 1886) is famous for its gorgeous stained glass, but the church is painted so prettily that it should be known for that too. The Church of the Annunciation is a Baroque gem (b. 1722); which shouldn’t be confused with the Church of the Assumption (b. 1852) at Klausenweg 2.
Even Mengkofen’s castle has gotten in on the religious theme. It used to be a stunning Schloss back when it was built in 1842, and now it’s a killer looking convent for retired nuns.
There’s still another castle to see, Tunzenberg Castle — located right at Schloßberg 1. You’d never guess from its 18th century makeover that it was a 16th century original.
And we’re still not done with the churches yet, by the way. You really should see the Gothic St. Leonhard Church (at Haguenau 37), and all the terrific 16th century artwork found at the Church of St. Catherine.
Have I missed any? Ah, yes, the formerly medieval Church of St. Peter, the Pilgrimage Church of St. Redemptor (b. 1785), and the neo-Romanesque church of St. Margaret.
A great way of getting around in Mengkofen to see all its churches and what-not is by bicycle. And with over 25km of hiking and biking trails, you’re not likely to see the same thing twice. In my humble opinion, one of the best places to ride to see is the Weilerkapelle; a tiny chapel with nothing around but a wide open field.
For anyone who doesn’t mind a crowd, come to Mengkofen’s Volksfest. It’s a multi-day event that starts with a beer tapping.
Need I say any more than that? I guess a good German beer could be a Heavenly experience, too. ;-)
