Castles were once used for defense, protection, and the proverbial “my castle is bigger than your castle” machismo. Centuries later they’re more romanticized invoking images of chivalry, ladies-in-waiting, and knights in shining armor.
In Querfurt, the castle today is a place of history and where everyone comes for a jolly good time.
Castle Querfurt was once a 10th century castellum. Locals and visitors come now for the Osterfeuer (Easter Fire) celebration and the Castle Fest (held on the 3rd weekend in June). Tourists come to see the actual Schloss and the beautiful 14th century chapel. Castle Querfurt also houses a fantastic history museum. Not all exhibits are on the castle, you’ll find some on Early Bronze Age finds.
One of the best finds of the Bronze Age is the Sky Disk which is now housed at the ultra-sleek & modern museum of Ark Nebra. Don’t miss this rare (and I mean RARE) archaeological find.
Medieval architecture is a bit more common, but lovely nonetheless. When you want art history, Querfurt has it. It doesn’t lie along the Romanesque Road for nothing. It’s also the birthplace of St. Bruno of Querfort (b. 970 d. 1009). You might have heard him called by his other name, St. Boniface.
The town is home to the 12th century Monastery Marienzell and a 14th century Carmelite Convent. There are plenty of remnants of the original defense fortification wall around town, especially along the Market & Church Squares.
They’re also where you find the other festivals held in town. The Bauernmarkt or Farmer’s Market (3rd weekend in September) is real grand affair. While the Dorffest or Village Fest (last weekend in June) takes place with lots of fanfare.
There are more festivities going on in May and June, like the Parkfest, Pfingstfest, Heimatfest, and Knoblauchmittwoch (Garlic Wednesday). So that’s certainly a great time to come here.
For quieter reflection, though, the Thalgarden or the City Park on Merseburger Road make the perfect places.
Querfurt isn’t your run-of-the-mill kind of place; its history alone makes it remarkable. Add that to the beautiful countryside and its countless street parties and you’ve got yourself one totally fantastic place to visit.
