There are many historical places in Germany and then there are places that are historic (yes, there’s a difference). The Swabian town of Steinheim is downright historic.
It’s not famous for any epic war battle, nor does it have a medieval castle with any ghostly legend. That’s not what Steinheim is famous for; it’s known for Homo Steinheimensis; the skull of a 25-year old woman found in 1933 that was buried right here for more than 250,000 years.
These are the third oldest remains ever found and pre-dates Neanderthal Man. Steinheim has a memorial where she was discovered, but her head now resides in the National Museum of Natural History in Stuttgart.
In terms of history, it makes the 1st century A.D. Roman ruin excavations seem downright young!
Jumping ahead a few centuries, Steinheim has lots of half timbered buildings in the center of town, including its large Rathaus that’s been the center of village life since 1686. It’s hard not to love a town square that’s framed by lots of historical timber framed buildings with cobblestone streets. The old market well next to the City Hall is a good photo-op.
Not too far off the square is the town’s Old Protestant Church; which sits right over by Steinheim’s Urban History Museum. The little ones might prefer to visit Steinheim’s old steam locomotive instead. Can ya blame them, just about every kid loves trains!
For a bit of the modern, Steinheim has a huge water complex known as the Wellarium. It’s got a few different pools, a twisting water slide, miniature golf, and beach volleyball. The fact that the pool is filled with mineral water is an extra added plus.
There’s a nice grassy knoll for anyone looking to enjoy a family picnic and outdoor cafe tables in case sitting on grass isn’t your idea of a jolly good time.
Now that I think about it, Steinheim an der Murr might be downright historic; but, it’s great for a downright good time, too. :-)
