You only see what you know (Goethe)
Nordkirchen Castle (Schloss Nordkirchen) is one of the most magnificent moated castles in the region of Münster. As it is considered the most representative Baroque residence in Westphalia, the complex is also named “Westphalian Versailles”. [German]
Zeche Zollern is a colliery in Dortmund built around 1900. Many castle-like buildings evoked the nickname Schloss der Arbeit (Castle of Work). The modern-equipped machine hall became famous for its art nouveau gate.
The Hezilo Chandelier in the Hildesheim Cathedral is a medieval circle-candlestick which measures stunning 6 metres in diameter. Its name origins from Bishop Hezilo of Hildesheim, who commissioned the chandelier in the 11th century.
In the streets of Constance (Konstanz), I came across this depiction of a three-headed peacock. Each head wore a tiara. What is the meaning of this strange combination? It is an allusion to the Three Popes Controversy.
The Nürnberger Chörlein is an architectural peculiarity in the old town of Nuremberg. These oriels artfully protrude from the upper floor of the houses onto the street and look like elite box seats. [German]
At first glance, this inn sign in Nuremberg didn’t seem special. But then I discovered the silhouette of a man wearing a crossbow right behind the dull-looking puppet of a witch. Locals told me this symbolizes a honey hunter.
At the southern end of Hildesheim’s pedestrian area, I came across a Huckup. The Aufhocker had found its victim in the person of a young thief of apples. But both are just a sculpture created by Carl Röder. [German]
The Breitachklamm is a gorge located in Allgäu next to the border between Germany and Austria. On the German end of the ravine, there is a helpful exhibition hall explaining the different parts of the gorge and how such a gorge comes into being.
The Saxon Steed (Sachsenross) has travelled a lot. You find it in many coats of arms and illustrations from different regions. While walking through Hanover, I finally saw a sculpture of this historic symbol. [German]
The Roman House in Weimar stands high above the Ilmpark and offers a beautiful view of the countryside from its windows. Grand Duke Karl August once enjoyed this view. Today, a museum inside tells about the history of the park. [German]
The New Town Hall in Hanover (Neues Rathaus Hannover) was opened in 1913. Since then, a pond in front of it mirrors the eclectic architecture. Inside, the building offers an intriguing curved dome lift. [German]
Lichtenwalde Castle in Saxony is best known for its park. The garden stretches high above the Zschopau Valley. Numerous water features and winding paths invite you to discover the grounds of this Baroque castle. [German]