Today it’s all about the town of Neudenau — a charming Old World town in the Heilbronn District, barely 17km from the city of Heilbronn itself, and considered part of the Stuttgart Metropolitan Region.
Its geography isn’t what makes Neudenau so attractive; all the fantastic half-timbered houses and charming chapels do that.
Oh, did I mention the castle? What if I said there were two castles? Even better, right? So what if one of the castles is in ruins? Ruine Heriboldisburg is still wonderful after all these years — just call ahead if you want to see this amazing 13th century medieval wonder.
And let’s not forget about Schloss Neudenau, another proper medieval castle from the 13th century. These days it’s the venue for the Heritage Museum, by the way, known as Josefine-Weihrauch-Heimatmuseum.
There are other amazing buildings from the Middle Ages throughout town, places like the Gangolfskapelle, or Chapel of St. Gangolf. This old Romanesque chapel used to function as a full-fledged Parish Church for an old village. The village is gone, the church remains.
If you think all this architecture is grand, wait til you see the Marktplatz. Oh, its Square is framed by the most charming of half-timbered houses — and they’re mighty proud of their framework Rathaus (Town Hall), built way back in 1587. Yeah, sounds old, but considering some of these buildings date to a century before — it’s not quite that old. ;-)
This is quite a bit to take in at one time, so relaxing with a nice glass of locally made wine is a grand way to remember it all — your choice if you want a Trollinger, a Pinot, or a Riesling.
You’ll also be happy to know the drinks flow nicely during one of Neudenau’s many festivals and other cultural events. Too bad the Herbolzheimer Dorffest (Village Fest) only happens every other year, but its Oktoberfest, two Kerwe parties, and its Advent Bazaar are annual pleasures.
Another annual event is the Pferdewallfahrt, held the second Sunday in May. It’s a huge procession to the Gangolf Chapel — a wonderful event that’s been going on for some 500 years.
I told you its geography isn’t what makes Neudenau so great — although that certainly helps. So, if you’re in the Stuttgart Metro Region, be sure to come on by Neudenau.
