Seeheim-Jugenheim is the quintessential medieval town and looks exactly like most of us would envision when thinking about Germany.
Though the merged villages of Seeheim and Jugenheim and their seven municipalities weren’t united until the late 20th century, their town’s histories span back to at least the 13th.
Seeheim-Jugenheim borders the city of Darmstadt and sits on the edge of the Odenwald, a low mountain range that’s the place of many German legends, songs, and castles.
There are a few great castles to visit. Schloss Seeheim was once a summer retreat for Ludwig II. And Schloss Heiligenberg is the ancestral home of the Mountbattens besides also having been a summer retreat for the Russian Czar.
A sight to see here is the Tomb of Mountbatten, the final resting place for the Great-Grandparents of England’s Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth II’s husband. You can also enjoy one of the many concerts and art exhibits held here.
The 13th century Burg Tannenberg (now in ruins) was the discovery sight of the world’s oldest handheld weapon that’s now on display in the German Museum in Nuremberg.
Seeheim-Jugenheim once had a 13th century monastery. While it now lies in ruins, the Grand Duchess Wilhelmine tried to have the monastery restored in the 19th century. A large golden cross stands in Seeheim-Jugenheim dedicated to this beloved grand lady.
Even walking along Jugenheim’s main street, you’ll find plenty of half timbered buildings including the town’s library and marriage hall from 1556. Jugenheim’s Church Chapel is a 15th century beauty! And Seeheim’s city hall dates to 1599 and is the location of the local history museum.
For a more modern Seeheim-Jugenheim, besides being the training center for the national airline Lufthansa, there’s the Free Light Stage or Freilichtbühne — an amphitheater in the middle of the forest holding many cultural events and concerts.
For a bit more nature, go visit the Goldschmidts Park as it’s just lovely with its fountains and rare flora and fauna. The mansion and gardens were once the private residence and now belong to the city.
All in all, I’m sure you’ll enjoy every minute of the scenic Seeheim-Jugenheim — from the wonderful outside art exhibits and concerts in the forest to the romantic ruins of life in medieval times.
