On my epic trek to see and experience all of Germany (for you readers, of course) I’ve learned all sorts of scientific and historical things. I got both at the same time in the Hessian town of Volkmarsen.
It’s actually a mixture of the two around the countryside, BTW. The Hollenkammer is a cave of red and white sandstone that’s home to a large bat colony (yeah, that’s the science); but it was once a Pagan worship site. So, there’s the history part.
I ain’t done yet. ;-)
Volkmarsen can be found near the Habichtswald Nature Park. And along the southern part of the Kugelsburg Castle is a mineral water spring, the Sauerbrunnen. See, more science.
For historical side of the early 13th century Kugelsburg Castle, it’s now in ruins after the Seven Years War (in the mid-18th century) — after somehow surviving the 17th century Thirty Years’ War pretty much intact. Not all that much is here after almost 300 years of the elements going at it — but maybe this is why it’s a popular hiking spot in Volkmarsen.
There’s another castle ruin, if you’re interested. Burg Fürstenstein was built in 1269, and no one cared to rebuild it after an 18th century fire. Why? Because, get this, its location wasn’t “strategic” enough.
What? Built me a castle on top of an active volcano — then I’d say the location wasn’t quite right. ;-)
One of the oldest sites in Volkmarsen is the Wittmarkapelle. The original church was built here around 930 A.D., on top of yet another Pagan worship site. Every Thursday during the summer, events are held at the Chapel, and there’s a big procession on Ascension Day.
The last of the Vokmarsen’s historical sites include a visit to the Heimatmuseum (Local History Museum), which you’ll find at Kasseler Straße 6; and the two watchtowers (the Scheidwarte and Judenwarte), and last but not least — the St. Mary Church (built 1260).
I’m really glad I got to experience the historical and scientific side of Volkmarsen. Can’t wait to see what I learn next.
