If you know anything about Baroque Art or architecture you have noticed many a “cherub” or young baby (known around as Putto) used quite a bit. Then I guess, it only befits the symbol found on the green signed Upper Swabian Baroque Route that rides right through Riedlingen on the infamous and grand River Danube.
Oh, the Oberschwäbische Barockstraße, as it’s called in German, isn’t the only one of Germany’s scenic routes that winds, rides, or walks through the streets of Riedlingen. You’ll also find the massive German Framework Road here, wonderful if you’re looking for those fairytale houses.
Then there’s the Danube Cycle Track, a bicycle ride that rides along the river (um, that was a bit self-explanatory); and then there’s the Danube-Lake Constance Cycle Path — giving you not only the best of the mighty Danube but, the romantic (and popular) Bodensee.
In Ridelingen’s Town Center you’ll notice not only the many half timbered houses (hence the Framework Route) but there are many bakeries and cafes. In case you haven’t noticed, all that sightseeing makes a person mighty hungry, so this is a great place to stop and eat.
Also within the town center is a cinema that has a single purpose; it functions as a live theater as well. Right over at the Rural Community Center (also, the town’s City Museum) does it in a fantastic building from 1556.
If you think these are reasons enough to come see Riedlingen, you’re in for a delightful treat. There’s more! The town’s got its own castle, known around here as Schloss Zwiefaltendorf; and has a medieval gate — the Zwiefaltertor.
It’s also got some great festivals and markets on top of it all. Come right before Lent (February) for the Riedlinger Fastnet, which is a Mardi Gras Festival. At the end of April is the City Run (you don’t have to run, just cheer them on!) and May is the annual Flea Market, considered to be one of the largest in Germany. There’s also the Fohlenmarkt in August and the Old Timer Fest during the Summer.
One of Riedlingen’s largest festivals, though, is the Gallusmarkt which is held every year on the Monday before St. Gallus Day (Oct 16) and ends with a huge fireworks display.
I’m pretty simple, so I don’t think there could be a better way to end my stay in Riedlingen. Oh yes there is, I can’t leave before I’ve seen the Swabian Alb that surround this town or the St. George Church that is the landmark of this place.
OK, now I’ve seen it all. Hope you enjoy Riedlingen as much as I have!
