The seven districts of Schelklingen in Baden-Württemberg is widely known for its medieval Benedictine Monastery. However, what if you weren’t interested in seeing a medieval monastery? (Oh, I can’t even believe I just wrote that.)
What then? You’d be skipping out on visiting a town like Schelklingen — thinking all it’s got is an old kloster, right?
Not so, my friends. Not so.
Schelklingen’s got castle ruins. Or, should I say the ruins of castles, because you’ll find what remains of four (yeah, that’s a lot) of ’em. There is an intact castle to boot, too. ;-)
Goody!
The ruins of Castle Muscherwang (built 1271) and its “moat” are found along the Kloster Urspring, which was built in 1127. This place was pretty happening throughout the Middle Ages with a 16th century guesthouse that catered to those on a spiritual quest. From the 15th century onward there was a guesthouse for those secular travelers looking for proper accommodations.
You can’t stay there today, but you’re more than welcome to visit its 17th century Abbey Church. Everyone raves about the monastery’s painting and sculptures (and the medieval graves if you’re into more of the macabre).
After visiting another church, this time the St. Afra Chapel (14th century), go ahead and hit up another castle ruin. Might I suggest the Justingen Castle, which stood from 1090 until 1834? Time and the elements have ravaged this abandoned castle, but its outer walls and arches can still be seen.
Where next? Hmm, how about a hike through the Biosphere Reserve Swabian Alb (which is within the Swabian Alb)? Yeah. Yeah. Nature. Great. Belongs on the Planet Green Network. :-)
No, I’m kidding — the Swabian Alb is a beautiful piece of land, and everyone should get a chance to see all the local wildlife, plants, and flowers.
You should also see the ruins of Hohenschelklingen (built in 1127, dest. 1650s), and the spot where Castle Studach once stood (from 1210). Trust me, you’ll know where Studach once was — there’s a Baroque chapel.
The only castle left is Castle Neusteußlingen, an intact castle from 1897 that was built over the 12th century one. It was the home of Duke Ludwig von Württemberg — and sadly isn’t open to the public.
At least the Weekly Market (on Wednesdays) and the St. Nicholas Market (1st Saturday of December) are a public affair. Here’s your chance to see all the half-timbered houses (including a guesthouse from the 16th century) while you’re shopping for great Swabian delights.
Aren’t you glad you decided to come, after all?
