It isn’t all about history when visiting Namborn in the Saarland. Which, by the way, should be your first clue that this traditionally German town of 10 villages was once ruled by the French.
When I say it isn’t all about history, I’m misleading. Because without appreciating the history surrounding the area — well, you won’t appreciate the area.
The area that is today’s Namborn is much older than just its French ruled history. In fact, over in the village of Furschweiler excavations have found a Roman Villa, both Celtic and Roman cemeteries (actually it was a mass Roman grave to be more precise), and artifacts dating to around 4000 B.C.
Think about that while you’re off enjoying the nearby swimming areas where you can also surf, go rowing, canoeing, paddle boating, or diving.
I ain’t done with the historical side of Namborn yet, so keep your swimtrunks on. Or, shall I say keep your hiking boots on because you’ll need them to go see the Liebenburg ruins.
Not much remains of the Liebenburg Castle though. Its tower was recreated in the 1970s — some three hundred years after the 12th century castle was destroyed in 1677. Too bad, the only thing that remains of the castle (commissioned by the Grafen von Castel in 1170) is parts of its dungeon and cistern.
You might actually be looking at parts of the castle and not even know it. Its stones were quarried to make other buildings after the Dutch leveled it.
When you’re done with the Burg ruins, take the 12km Smuggler’s Path through the countryside. Better yet, take a guided hiking tour around the area to learn more about all the contraband that used to make its way in & around the area.
Of course, if you’d much rather just party your little heart out, don’t let me stop you. You’ll find four Kirmes festivals (one in May, one in July, and two in August), as well as the annual Advent Market at the end of November.
Oh, I guess I should have said without history AND its festivals, you wouldn’t appreciate the wonderful town of Namborn.
