Follow what is now a wine growing region in southern Hesse and where you’ll find the town of Mörlenbach.
Besides growing the grapes that make some of the best German wines, Mörlenbach is a large almond producing area. Hmm, I never munched on almonds while drinking a glass of Riesling; but, it’s worth a try.
Mörlenbach has one of the most beautiful timber framed Town Halls in all of Germany. OK, that’s my personal opinion; but, the thing was built back in 1504 so that’s gotta count for something. Not? There’s also a new Town Hall that was built in 1978, but it doesn’t have anywhere near the flair of the old one.
St. Bartholomäus Church is another place in Mörlenbach that’s got flair, style, and some pretty awesome history. Yeah, it was built back in the 12th/13th centuries, but so were so many of Germany’s churches. This one’s special because it has three (3) alters from various centuries and a 400 year old organ taken from Heidelberg Castle’s Chapel.
FYI — Heidelberg is only about 25 km away and it’s castle is in ruins — so it’s nice that it’s chapel organ went to a good home.
As you explore all of Mörlenbach’s little nooks & crannies, keep your eyes out for the many red sandstone crosses in town. You’re not going to find any out in the Odenwald, but you will find plenty of walking and bicycling trails.
Don’t forget to come back into town on the last weekend of August for the town’s Kerwe (church festival) and the Village Festival. On the first weekend of Advent, Mörlenbach holds its annual Advent Market (approx 4 weeks before Christmas) at the Town Hall.
Maybe you can go buy yourself some of those locally grown almonds and locally produced wines for some great gifts to bring home. Or… you might wanna keep ’em for yourself! ;-)
