If time travel were possible and you could go back to the city of Roßdorf (including the village of Gundernhausen) during the time of the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648), you’d be in utter shock. The war and that horrid plague of the Black Death totally devastated the town.
Not so today.
Today, Roßdorf and Gundernhausen have risen from the ashes and are now a mecca for horse breeding and wine growing. Bet you thought I was gonna say beer. ;-) No, this isn’t Bavaria — it’s Hesse! The area is really known for its red vino, so be sure to try some.
Other than drinking a good bit, there’s only a few things to do in town. Being only a stone’s throw southeast of the city of Darmstadt, most of the real “happening” stuff goes on there.
What you will find in Roßdorf is a fine old church and there’s one in Gundernhausen, too. Honestly, if you appreciate fine artwork, you’ll like these two Protestant town churches.
Roßdorf’s City Hall is also a fine piece of art and history in itself. It’s been the center of life around town since it was built way back in 1575. Handicrafts have also been made around here for centuries and you’ll see just what’s been made over at the Handicraft Museum.
Hesse is also real pretty country, so it’s always nice to grab a bicycle (you never forget how) and ride off around town. Find yourself a little outdoor cafe and enjoy some Blechkuchen (cake) or Kreppel (a kinda donut) with a cup of coffee or Riesling wine (I told you this is a wine growing area).
You might wanna save the drinking for after you’ve visited Roßdorf’s outdoor swimming pool or its roller skating rink. Come winter, the rink turns itself over to those looking to ice skate.
After a day of doing that, you’ve really earned that drink. Now, pass that bottle of red and bottoms up! ;-)
