The thirty-six (!) villages of Neuötting sometimes get a bit forgotten about. Why?
Because it’s right next door (OK, 2km) from the holy pilgrimage town of Altötting in Upper Bavaria. But, a few centuries ago it was abuzz since it was on an old salt and grain trade route.
Its great location on the Inn River made trading and commerce big business back then. Now, it’s a terrific place to take a stroll and watch the world go by.
Oops! I had a romantic moment for a second there. ;-)
Now after visiting Altötting, the churches in Neuötting might seem a bit anti-climatic, but, not if you keep an open mind. The most impressive of the churches is St. Nicholas, a late Gothic church (built 1410) whose tower rises 78 meters above the ground. Don’t look too long, you might hurt your neck.
No stretching the neck muscles are needed to see the early 16th century Gothic Church of St. Anne (built 1510) and the Hospital Church (built 1500) that has a wonderful Rococo alter. Don’t you just love all those architectural styles all in one place? Ah, maybe it’s just me.
More of Germany’s stunning churches can be seen along the Sieben-Kirchen-Radweg. Sorry, my non-German speaking readers… that’s the Seven Churches Cycling Route. It’s a doozy going 17 miles, so no wonder it’s a bike instead of walking route.
Don’t pedal off yet, though. The City Museum needs to be seen first. Open Tuesday through Sunday, this free museum (yes, FREE!) looks at 13th century Bavarian life.
Too bad the only thing missing is a castle. Oh, maybe not since there’s one in nearby Burghausen.
You know what Neuötting, while some people might forget about you because of your famous neighbor, I haven’t. And neither have the folks over at the Tourist Office (on Ludwigstraße 12). When you’re here go see them, they’ll help you forget about everyplace else. ;-)
