Four hundred years ago the Hessian town of Schaafheim had only 17 residents. Which is about the time when Schaafheim’s castle was pillaged and its church totally sacked. Do you not blame folks for NOT wanting to be here?
Today, it’s a vibrant and proud community with festivals, churches, sports, and markets. It has come a long way over the last four centuries.
Honestly, Schaafheim’s history spans back much longer than just 400 years. It goes back to about 4,000 B.C., but most of the sightseeing in its historical center is nowhere near that old.
Right by Schaafheim’s Rathaus (Town Hall) is the gorgeous red brick Evangelical Church (located at Lutherstraße 3A). Everyone is welcome to attend; and the church even holds special children’s services on the 1st Sunday of the month.
FYI, though, the Scheffemer Kirmes (a church festival) is held the last weekend of August; and the other historical church in Schaafheim is a wonderful half-timbered structure that deserves more than just a passing look.
The last of Schaafheim’s “historical” bit is the Wartturm, a watchtower that stands 22 meters high and was built in 1492. (You find this tower in the south of town.)
Now it’s time to party (again). September is the best month for it, too. Why? Because the end of September brings on the annual Folk Festival (called the Volkstanzfest) AND the last weekend of the month is OKTOBERFEST! Forget wine. Forget food. Bring on the beer!
A bit later into the year is the annual Christmas market where folks come to shop for little handicrafts and gift while drinking some mulled wine.
Right before the Lenten season (think February) Schaafheim holds two Carnivals. Oh, just consider it another excuse to have some beer, wine, and merry cheer.
When you’re just about ready to call it a day, don’t! There are quite a few hiking and cycling trails to travel along in a beautiful nature park area; and the Freibad (open daily) is a nice spot to swim or just relax.
What a difference a few centuries make, yes?
