Bavaria is the largest federal state in all of Germany. It’s divided into seven regions. One of ’em is Middle Franconia, and that’s where you’ll find cute lil’ Roßtal.
Me? I don’t care how many regions of Bavaria there are, I love the entire thing and its because of places like Roßtal. By the time I’m done telling you about Roßtal, you’ll feel the same way, too.
One of its biggest attractions is the Martini Market. No, not the James Bond, shaken not stirred, give me an olive martini — this is a huge festival with Christmas flair, because it takes place every November (usually around the 11th of the month and usually falls during the Advent season).
The Martinimarkt, as it’s called in German, is sort of a religious festival, so in keeping with that I’ll tell you about Roßtal’s churches. The church of Sts. Ägidius and Jacobus was built in 1414. It kind of fell into ruin by 1779 and for years residents have been trying to renovate it. It’s alter is a beautiful example of medieval religious art.
Another medieval church to see is the 13th century Maria Magdalena Church. But, it is the crypt underneath the Romanesque Church of St. Laurentius that is the biggest attraction. As it should, it’s been here since 1025 A.D. The Middle Ages didn’t just give Roßtal churches, it gave it the Gate Tower, too (built 1494).
A bit after medieval life, residents built many of those framework houses that we love so much. You’ll find a good deal of them on the Marktplatz; and one of the best is the Altes Rathaus that was built in 1621. Just for giggles, keep a look out for many of the town’s old well houses.
And, of course, since this is Franconia you’re always welcome at a beer garden after a long day of sightseeing, or hiking. Which is another reason why I love Roßtal so much!
