Interestingly enough, many folks are fooled into thinking that only cities and (possibly) its surrounding ‘burbs can be cultural dynamos. Yeah, whatever. They’ve obviously never been to the old smuggling tobacco town of Rödinghausen in northern North Rhine-Westphalia.
No need to go to London to hear the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, they’ve played here during Rödinghausen’s summer concert series (among others from all over the world). This is in addition to the other concerts and festivals held within the town’s five municipalities.
One of the best ones takes place on the last weekend in August. The Kilver Farmers Market is more than just purchasing some locally grown produce. Of course, come TRY some locally grown and cooked local goodies; but, there’s more to it.
Ohhh, almost forgot about the Spa Lighting Festival that happens right before. Sit amongst the flowers and the special roses that are named for town for the fireworks display that ends the mid-August party at the Spa Park (there’s also a bake house hidden within).
Don’t mix up the Spa Park with Rödinghausen’s Sculpture Garden, though.
Other outdoor activities include a visit to the Nonnenstein, an observation tower with a 360-degree countryside view from 100 meters above.
When you’ve got the sightseeing bug, Rödinghausen can accommodate. Some of the more historical buildings that you’ll find around town are what is known as Westphalian farmhouses. One of the oldest buildings is Haus Kilver. Although this one you see today is from 1682, the original on this spot is just about double its age!
Funny, that’s just about the story of Rödinghausen’s St. Bartholomew Church. The only exception to the story is the church you’re looking at was built over the 9th century site in 1233. Services are still held at St. Bart’s, only they’re Lutheran now.
The other churches in Rödinghausen’s hamlets are worth a stop, too. Hey, you never know what you’ll find and the countryside is just lovely going from one to the other. Only a visit to the town’s one museum remains; a tiny one with horse-drawn sleigh exhibits.
Rödinghausen goes to show you that you don’t need to come to a big city to find some great cultural events and/or sightseeing. I kind of like little “out of the way” towns — you never know what to expect!
