Three things really stand out in my head regarding the town of Schweitenkirchen. One, it sits in a huge hops growing region of the state. Two, there are just about a bazillion (and a half!) number of churches scattered throughout its 53 square kilometers. And, three, there’s plenty more to do around the region than just what you’ll find within its town limits.
Does this sound like your idea of a good time? I know it does to me, which is why I think I love Upper Bavaria so much.
First off about the hops thing — it’s one of the main ingredients to make a fine German beer. That being said, it’s not my only motivating factor in loving what’s in (and around) Schweitenkirchen. German beer, however, is readily available at some great cultural events, like the Pfingstvolksfest held at Pentecost. Or, of course, like the annual Christmas Market.
What was the second thing? Oh yes, the churches. Where to start? How about at the Church of Sts. Peter & Paul, a late 19th century one. Then you’ve got the Church of St. Mark, a Baroque one built in 1736. You might not guess the Church of St. Ulrich with its 18th century renovation is truly a late-Gothic design at heart. The Church of St. Stephen also underwent an 18th century overhaul — probably needed it, it is from the 15th century after all.
Don’t run off yet, I’m not done with the churches…
The Pfarrkirche Sankt Johannes der Täufer (located at Kirchenweg 1) was built in the 1650s, there’s the St. Emmeram didn’t come along until sometime in the 18th century — might explain the onion dome, it was popular back then, and lastly is the Church of Sts. Valentin & Martin a stunning example of 13th/14th century architecture.
Ok, I’m done with the churches. Wait, no I’m not, forgot all about the neo-Romanesque St. Koloman Church in the village of Sünzhausen; and the Church of St. George which is really a Romanesque church at its core, despite receiving renovations in the 1500s and 1800s. All right, now I’m done.
Time to talk about reason number three. As if visiting some amazingly beautiful churches and enjoying yourself at a great festival or market isn’t enough — how about visiting the nearby Hallertauer Hopfenmuseum (Hallertau Hops Museum) in Geisenfeld, or try rock climbing, golfing, and swimming.
So, I’ve mentioned the three things — but I’m inclined to add some reasons to love the place. Schweitenkirchen has a variety of restaurants for when you’re hungry. Plus, it’s got this awesome looking 400-year-old tree, and its got this amazing 16-arch bridge from the 1930s known as the Holledaubrücke.
Now do you agree with me that Schweitenkirchen sounds like a great place to be? Of course you do! ;-)
