Pirmasens — Exciting Shoe Maker Town In The Palatinate

Pirmasens, located right next to the wilderness of the Palatinate Forest (Pfälzerwald), has an untouched beauty that borders on the mysterious. It takes you right back to the 8th century where it has its origins and even now refuses to entirely shed its medieval veneer.

The Schlossplatz would easily be the most visited spot in Pirmasens. It is also the most interesting from a visitor’s perspective. The square holds delightful treats for the senses.

For instance, you’re bound to stare mesmerized at the Ramba Treppe, a water cascade down a flight of steps in an interesting curved angle. A monument to Bismarck is another attraction in art nouveau style.

Turn the other way and you see the impressive Town Hall building of Pirmasens. This is where you need to spend a few hours to fully explore the Shoe Museum, Burkel Gallery exhibiting the art of Henry Burkel, and Heimatmuseum, all housed within.

Right opposite to it is the St. Pirminius Church in a resplendent neo-gothic style. More churches in the area show casing various architectural styles are the baroque Luther Church and the St. John’s Church.

You can’t miss the Shoemaker’s Fountain in the vicinity of the Luther Church. This is a monument to Joss, the pioneer in mechanical shoe making, who helped put Pirmasens on the map of shoe making.

When you feel the need for a change of pace, walk into the new shopping malls which makes you forget where you are once you enter its portals.

Besides all this, do take a tour through the German Shoe Route (Deutsche Schuhstraße). This street takes it way through Pirmasens but also to several other towns in this south-western Palatinate region. See the below photo for details…

German Shoe Route (Deutsche Schuhstraße)
Image Copyright: Kunz Verlag