I first fell in love with the picturesque village of Rothenburg the town still fed a few farm animals within its medieval walls and Rothenburg is well on its way to becoming a medieval theme park But Rothenburg is still Germany’s best-preserved walled town Countless travelers have searched for the elusive “untouristy Rothenburg.” There are many contenders (such as Michelstadt but none holds a candle to the king of medieval German cuteness and a nearly inedible pastry specialty (a fried ball of pie crust called a Schneeball – “snowball”) Save time and mileage and be satisfied with the winner there are several “Rothenburgs” in Germany Make sure you plan for Rothenburg ob der Tauber (on the Tauber River); people really do sometimes drive or ride the train to other when Berlin and Munich were just wide spots in the road Rothenburg was Germany’s second-largest city it’s the country’s most exciting medieval town enjoying tremendous popularity with tourists without losing its charm There’s a thousand years of history packed between its cobbles Rothenburg’s Medieval Crime and Punishment Museum is full of diabolical instruments of punishment and torture Jakob’s Church contains the one must-see art treasure in Rothenburg: a glorious 500-year-old altarpiece by Tilman Riemenschneider For a closer view of this realistic commotion of Bible scenes It’s Germany’s greatest piece of woodcarving Warning: Rothenburg is one of Germany’s best shopping towns my Christmas tree sports a few ornaments from Rothenburg.) The biggest of the ornament shops has an excellent little German Christmas Museum upstairs Its collection is much more than a ploy to get you to spend more money You’ll get a look at tree decorations through the ages mini-trees sent in boxes to WWI soldiers at the front A trail leads downhill from Rothenburg’s idyllic castle gardens to the cute 600-year-old “Toppler Castle,” the summer home of the town’s mayor in the 15th century its floor plan is more like a four-story tree house The mayor built it in an attempt to demonstrate to townsfolk that it was safe to live outside the ramparts of the densely populated walled town the trail continues downstream along the trout-filled Tauber River to the sleepy village of Detwang It is actually older than Rothenburg and has a church with another impressive Riemenschneider altarpiece To see more of the rural countryside (old mills rent a bike for a breezy half-day pedal around the river valley To avoid the hordes of Rothenburg’s day-trippers Except for the rare Saturday night and during festivals the sounds of the Thirty Years’ War still echo through turrets and clock towers climb the Town Hall tower to enjoy the best view of the town and surrounding countryside This 1.5-mile stroll atop the wall is at its most medieval before breakfast or at sunset warm light bathes the half-timbered houses A walking tour helps bring the ramparts alive For the serious side of Rothenburg’s history you can take the tour offered by the town’s tourist office (or follow my free audio tour) But for a thoroughly fun hour of medieval wonderment The watchman jokes like a medieval John Cleese as he stokes his lamp and takes tourists on his rounds all the while telling slice-of-gritty-life tales I’m happy to find myself alone with Rothenburg I finger the medieval stonework and ponder how centuries of hard-working horse carts wore grooves in the cobbles while the winds of history polished half-timbered gables and blew through the grooves of centuries of horse carts I aim an arrow into the dark forest that surrounds the city it feels good to be within these protective walls where modern-day travelers meet medieval wayfarers Give directly to The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages community forums series -- which helps to offset the costs of several reporter and editor positions at the newspaper -- by using the easy options below Gifts processed in this system are tax deductible Get breaking news delivered to your inbox as it happens © Copyright 2025, The Spokesman-Review | Community Guidelines | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy | Copyright Policy Germany — Look at one of the numerous lists of the world’s most beautiful small towns and you’re all but guaranteed to see the Bavarian wonder known as Rothenburg ob der Tauber on it But without the intervention of six American GIs who risked their lives 80 years ago to save the town from a planned Allied bombing campaign the medieval jewel would have been obliterated Army Garrison Ansbach told the tale of that little-known World War II feat Friday with a screening of “And Now Show that You are One People!” at the Bismarck Movie Theater on base which is about 20 miles east of Rothenburg civilians and German residents showed up to watch the 2020 documentary by German filmmakers Thilo Pohle and Kerstin Schmidt in recognition of the 80th anniversary of Ansbach’s liberation It tells how a group of American soldiers who entered Rothenburg in April 1945 under a white flag persuaded the German fighters holed up there to leave they saved the 60% of the town that was not in ruins along with countless lives including children belonging to the Hitler Youth had been instructed to fight to the last man The film features archival photographs in the style of American documentarian Ken Burns and interviews with local survivors Voiceovers by Americans from the base allowed it to be shown in English Friday’s audience for the movie included Sgt “It helps provide a better framework of why we’re here and what we’re doing,” said Holm who is assigned to an artillery unit at Ansbach who works in human resources at the garrison said he enjoyed the film’s attention to African American troops who were some of the first to liberate the area The Germans had been told they were cannibals but residents interviewed for the film recalled how their humanity shone through “Films like this (usually) like to bulk all the American soldiers together,” said Jackson Pohle and Schmidt came across the story of Rothenburg’s rescue after reading former Stars and Stripes correspondent William Dwyer’s posthumous memoir “So Long for Now,” which was released in 2009 Dwyer had part of the team that entered Rothenburg on orders from Assistant Secretary of War John McCloy to make contact with the Nazi leadership under SS Gen Max Simon and persuade his forces to withdraw As the six of them headed to meet a German officer at Wildbad Rothenburg on April 16 local residents shook their fists and spat at them group were blindfolded and feared execution but were ultimately given audience with a German officer The Americans explained that the town would be bombed if the German forces did not withdraw immediately The officer feared death at Simon’s hands but ultimately acquiesced touching off a race against time to call off the impending attack to give the Germans one chance to surrender the town and save it from absolute destruction All six members of the team were later awarded Bronze Stars for succeeding in the mission to spare Rothenburg Ansbach was liberated three days later by elements of the 56th Armored Infantry and 92nd Reconnaissance Squadron which had encircled the city from the north and east was among the Germans in the audience Friday She expressed her amazement that the six-person team went ahead with the mission given how badly they were treated “It’s surprising that they wanted to (save the town) after all that happened,” she said ‘To hell with them.’ But we appreciate it.” Whether you're venturing indoors or hanging in the beer garden you'll feel like you've landed in Rothenburg itself - but without feeling the jet lag from the nine-hour flight Get ready to soak up more bar articles, imbibable stories and cocktailing content, brought to by Miller Lite. For more of our Bar stories click here!  As much as it is a gigantic cliché to say that one has always had a passion for film Matt Mueller has always had a passion for film Whether it was bringing in the latest movie reviews for his first grade show-and-tell or writing film reviews for the St Norbert College Times as a high school student Matt is way too obsessed with movies for his own good When he's not writing about the latest blockbuster or talking much too glowingly about "Piranha 3D," Matt can probably be found watching literally any sport (minus cricket) or working at - get this - a local movie theater Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. on KPBS TV / PBS app In Germany's largest wine region, Mainz unfolds like a delightful Riesling. Samantha explores the ruins of a Roman amphitheater near a main train station and visits Eva Vollmer Winery She enjoys German wine at Weinhaus Loesch, then travels to Wiesbaden to taste hot chocolate at Kunder Chocolateria At the Wiesbaden Museum she admires the largest Art Nouveau collection Finally, she tours the fairy-tale town of Rothenburg, experiencing its medieval charm and visiting the Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas Shop home to an impressive collection of authentic German Christmas decor Watch On Your Schedule: This episode will be available to stream with the PBS app for a limited time PLACES TO LOVE takes viewers on a discovery of the emotional heart of travel by highlighting the people who are changing challenging and strengthening a destination to deliver a decidedly refreshing and enriching travel experience The series encourages viewers to experience the passion of people and the soul of a place in a way that only traveling can do Samantha Brown on Facebook / Instagram Stream PBS SoCal and your favorite PBS programs to your TV and devices wherever Celebrate AAPI Month on PBS SoCal all May with exclusive programs Find full episodes and educational games from Curious George Support PBS SoCal and watch full seasons of your favorite shows Samantha explores the ruins of a Roman amphitheater near a main train station and visits Eva Vollmer Winery then travels to Wiesbaden to taste hot chocolate at Kunder Chocolateria PBS SoCal is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.Tax ID: 95-2211661 Stay informed with this twice-weekly e-newsletter sent right to your inbox The City of Arlington and the City of Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany memorialized their official status as Friendship Cities in a signing ceremony on Nov The documents were signed by Mayor Jim Ross and Oberbürgermeister (Grand Lord Mayor) of Rothenburg Markus Naser officiated by Vice Chair of Sister Cities International and former City Councilmember 4 as Rothenburg Friendship Day in Arlington to further commemorate the occasion The partnership was also recognized with a signing ceremony in Rothenburg The signing takes place in both participating cities so that both communities can witness the endeavor and help build relationships A Friendship Cities relationship often serves a stepping-stone to a more formal relationship between two cities and is typically centered around a project – in this case Sister Cities International was created in 1956 by President Eisenhower with a vision to champion peace and prosperity by fostering bonds between people from different communities around the world.  “We’re here to celebrate our relationship and our friendship between Rothenburg and Arlington that’s rooted in the traditions and the joy of Christmas and the Christmas markets,” said Trey Yelverton “This partnership will allow our cities to exchange cultural treasures and deepen our appreciation for each other’s heritage in this special kind of gathering.”  is known for its well-preserved medieval history and buildings has maintained a commitment to preserving Rothenburg’s historical charm preserving sustainable development and international collaboration.  “When you ask about what brings our two cities together I think it’s the difference[s] of the two cities because it’s way more interesting to learn from another city if you’re not exactly the same,” said Lord Mayor Naser “We get to see the differences in our concepts and we’re making another big step today because we’re officially signing an agreement.”  future collaborations between Rothenburg and Arlington could include working with the University of Texas at Arlington on exchange student programs.  Sister and Friendship City initiatives position Arlington as a global hub for international cooperation cultural enrichment and mutual understanding.  For more information on Sister Cities International, visit sistercities.org.  View on Map Contact Us A painting by Ernst Klimt that was completed by his much more famous brother Gustav after Ernst’s sudden death is due to be offered at auction at Sotheby’s evening sale on 4 December in London. Hans Wurst Delivering an Impromptu Performance in Rothenburg is a version of an enormous painting produced from 1866 to 1868 by Ernst Klimt for the ceiling of the grand staircase of Vienna’s Burgtheater. He began the easel version in 1892 but died in December that year at the age of 29 of a heart illness. In a touching tribute to his brother, Gustav completed the painting. It was a task he found hard—in an account of Gustav Klimt’s life, his sister Hermine wrote: “And so, he [Gustav] had to complete the painting, which Ernst had left unfinished. As often as he tried to get started, he simply couldn’t and despaired. When he got home, he would say ‘I can’t finish it!’.” Gustav Klimt introduced the faces of members of the Klimt family and Ernst’s in-laws—the Flöge family—into the crowd watching the street performer in the Bavarian town of Rothenburg ob der Taube. (Ernst Klimt was married to Helene Flöge, whose sister Emilie became Gustav’s life companion and confidante.) Gustav signed the painting with Ernst’s signature. When he was just 13, Ernst Klimt joined his brother at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna in 1877. Together with Franz Matsch, they formed the “Künstler-Compagnie” in 1881 and received a number of prestigious commissions. The theme of the ten Burgtheater works was the history of theatre; Ernst created two of them, while Matsch and Gustav painted four each. Hanswurst was a traditional, buffonish comic character in German-speaking theatre. “Both artists were cutting their teeth at that point—Gustav was only two years ahead,” says Claude Piening, the head of 19th-century art at Sotheby’s in London. “Both brothers at that point had a naturalistic traditional style. Who knows what Ernst would have done had he lived?” Piening says it is not entirely clear why Ernst later painted a smaller version of the Hanswurst work. “It could well have been a commission from someone who had seen the original version in the Burgtheater,” he says. The later easel painting was exhibited in Vienna in 1895 and sold. Sotheby’s sold it again in 1984, for a hammer price of £140,000. For the December auction, its estimated price is between £300,000 and £500,000. “I would like to think Austrian museums might be interested”, Piening says. “It has a wonderful story to tell and is arguably more tightly painted than the theatre ceiling, which is more than four times the size.” news14 June 2023Gustav Klimt's last portrait has highest estimate ever put on a painting in Europe at over £65mLady with a Fan (1917) was last sold for $11.6m in 1994 and will be offered at Sotheby's in London on 27 June preview27 March 2024From long-lost portrait by Gustav Klimt to a painting by the ‘Persian Picasso’: our pick of the April salesPlus a mid-career painting by African American artist Hughie Lee-Smith news29 January 2024Klimt portrait believed lost for a century to be auctioned in ViennaThe auction house Im Kinsky estimates the price of the 1917 painting at between €30m and €50m You can walk the red-pebbled walkways that wind through the village to get an up-close look at the old-world architecture of the homes and shops Stoudtburg Village is located in Adamstown Action News photojournalist Dave Edwards takes us there Professor3141 Tupper HallDavis Campuse-mail The host innate immune system plays essential roles in detecting invading viruses and in initiating and orchestrating antiviral responses it is essential that viruses effectively inhibit this host response These conflicting interactions have led to evolutionary arms races between the hosts and the viruses The Rothenburg lab focuses on the interaction between viruses and the immune system of their hosts We are especially interested in how these interactions influence the host range and virulence of viruses We are studying how viral nucleic acids are detected in vertebrates and how viral molecules interfere with these processes Understanding these interactions will lead to important insights into the role of species-specific interactions of the innate immune system with viral modulators which is relevant for the understanding of virus host range and virulence and lay the foundation for a better prediction of which viruses pose significant future threats One key immune antiviral protein that we are studying is the protein kinase PKR PKR detects virus infections by recognizing viral double-stranded RNA Activated PKR phosphorylates the translation initiation factor eIF2a which leads to the general suppression of protein synthesis and the upregulation of stress-responsive proteins and genes In order to evade the antiviral effects of PKR viruses have evolved a plethora of different genes whose products inhibit PKR activation and activity We are studying the mechanisms by which these viral molecules inhibit PKR and if they differentially inhibit PKR from various mammalian species we are elucidating how poxviruses evolve on the genomic level in order to adapt to new hosts and how they acquire novel genes from their hosts We are harnessing this knowledge to engineer poxviruses with enhanced capabilities to selectively destroy cancer cells and to create proteins with enhanced antiviral activity that will help to prevent the transmission of viruses from animals to humans and to other animals See: A complete listing of Stefan Rothenburg's publications » Project ScientistRm 3224 Tupper HallDavis, CA 95616-5271gbrennan@ucdavis.edu List of Publications About me: I am a veterinarian and molecular biologist focused on the cross-species transmission of viruses I have studied both DNA and RNA viruses in both BSL-2 and BSL-3 laboratory settings I have developed expertise in the molecular analysis of viral evolution My current work explores aspects of the genetic and biochemical basis by which viral and host factors evade or inhibit one another Postdoctoral FellowRm 3130 Tupper HallDavis, CA 95616-5271amegawati@ucdavis.edu List of Publications About me: I am currently a postdoctoral scholar in the Rothenburg lab I am interested in studying host-pathogen interactions vector-borne diseases and molecular virology in microbiology from the University of California Davis in 2022 During my doctoral research in the Rothenburg lab we generated patentable antiviral proteins called Recombinant Enhanced Antiviral Restrictors (REAVRs) which were highly effective in inhibiting replication of multiple virus families My current research focuses on investigating the molecular mechanisms of how poxviruses acquire host genes and determine how these newly acquired genes evolve to provide a selective advantage to the poxviruses Click on the image to enlarge Graduate Student, Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate GroupRm 3130 Tupper HallDavis, CA 95616-5271chizhang@ucdavis.edu List of Publications About me: I received my Bachelor's degree at UC Davis majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Computer Science My research interest lies in host-pathogen interaction and the molecular basis of their arms race My project focuses on a novel bat poxvirus Eptesipox virus and I am working on characterizing the functions and activities of the viral protein K3 and E3's on how they inhibit host innate immune pathways I enjoy spending time with my cat and cooking Graduate Student, Microbiology Graduate GroupRm 3130 Tupper HallDavis, CA 95616-5271edmarkle@ucdavis.edu List of Publications in Microbiology from Colorado State University where I worked in the Arthropod-Borne and Infectious Disease Laboratory with a focus on characterizing virus-mosquito vector interactions in Veterinary Medicine from the University College Dublin and explored the emergence of a flavivirus candidate with my thesis centered on generating recombinant antiviral proteins to restrict virus replication Outside of the lab you can find me at the dog park with my adorable Aussie-doodle Oliver or in Tahoe snowboarding most weekends in the winter Graduate Student, Graduate Group in ImmunologyRm 3130 Tupper HallDavis, CA 95616-5271melfernandez@ucdavis.edu List of Publications About me: I am part of the UC Davis' Graduate Group in Immunology I was an undergraduate researcher at UC Merced where I had the privilege to work on many different research projects including studying the evolution of lizard color polymorphisms and different host responses upon toxoplasma gondii infection I joined the Rothenburg lab in 2023 where I study the interactions and coevolution of rabbit poxviruses and their hosts I like to think that my current research is somewhat of a nice mixture of ideas from my previous research experiences I like to do different activities with people like hanging out with friends I've also been recently obsessed with making legos and puzzles Rotation Graduate Student, Microbiology Graduate GroupRm 3130 Tupper HallDavis, CA 95616-5271hiseo@ucdavis.edu List of Publications Undergraduate StudentRm 3130 Tupper HallDavis, CA 95616-5271mkazuma@ucdavis.edu About me: I am currently a 4th year undergraduate at UC Davis majoring in Biochemistry and Japanese and the current project I am working on is characterizing recombinant enhanced antiviral restrictor (REAVR) proteins in response to mosquito-borne viruses. On my downtime Undergraduate StudentRm 3130 Tupper HallDavis, CA 95616-5271krheye@ucdavis.edu About me: I am currently working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Genetics and Genomics here at UC Davis I am easily inspired by all sorts of things in biology but in particular I’m very interested in viral evolution and genetics I will be assisting Chi in her projects including characterizing the immune evasion of Eptesipox virus Outside of the lab you can find me playing bass and enjoying the outdoors (but mostly studying) Undergraduate StudentRm 3130 Tupper HallDavis, CA 95616-5271strahman@ucdavis.edu About me: I am currently an undergraduate student here at Davis majoring in Medical and Molecular Microbiology I recently joined the lab to assist Mindy with her project involving Leporipoxviruses in rabbits My research interest similarly lies in studying host-pathogen interactions and co-evolution of viruses and their hosts I am involved in a student-run clinic and I also like to take walks and read List of Publications List of Publications Most Recent Position: Associate Director of the Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston List of Publications List of Publications Most Recent Position: Post-doctoral Fellow List of Publications Most Recent Position: Post-doctoral fellow National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases List of Publications List of Publications Most Recent Position: Senior Research Associate at Novogene List of Publications List of Publications Title: “The highs and lows of enteric infections” (PDF) See: More Seminars » Make a donation using our secure online system. More Faculty News » More Student News » Follow Us on Twitter Stay connected with what′s happening at UC Davis Health and School of Medicine exciting things at my house because they equal road trips My husband and I had just unpacked from a cosmopolitan-packed weekend in Düsseldorf Located along Germany’s picturesque Romantic Road Rothenburg (RO-TEN-BURG) has long captured the hearts of those who meet her it is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the country More than 3.5 kilometers (2.15 miles) of the ancient city walls remain intact and walkable Rothenburg has also appeared in several films notably as the inspiration for the village in Walt Disney’s “Pinocchio” and in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” Parts 1 and 2.We were sold We punched Rothenburg into our GPS and off we went We exited the A6 near Heidelberg and threaded our way through the rural countryside The road morphed from the well-marked concrete of primary roads to soft black asphalt I had to fight the urge not to hang out of the sunroof like it was a Las Vegas limousine One lonely hill waited at the end of the street Surely that’s where Rothenburg’s famous ancient walls must be hiding “Your destination is on the left.” We craned our heads left but the only thing we saw was a field of grazing sheep and in the tiny print reserved for discussing medicinal side effects the resident expert chastised travelers to make sure to get the right Rothenburg we ended up more than two hours away from the Rothenburg more formally known as Rothenburg ob der Tauber the red (rot) fortress (Burg) on the Tauber River.Hungry and angry we were determined to see some ancient city walls WHERE TO PARKDriving within the city walls is discouraged but check regulations with your hotelier first there are five well-marked parking areas surrounding the city walls which put us a few blocks north of the city’s White Tower (Gothic 13th-century tower housing Town Hall and the tourist office) and Market Square Pay at the automatic Parkscheinautomat kiosk and display the ticket on the dash before you leave the vehicle The city walls are an unforgettable experience this is also an excellent rainy weather activity and it’s free You can enter and exit the walls at several stairwells around the city and take breaks at your leisure A perfect stopping spot is at the Spitaltor to see the town’s crest emblazoned on the tower George’s fountain and meander through Market Square taking in the adorable Christmas and trinket shops and picturesque half-timbered architectural style Take a shopping stroll down Schmiedgasse and Spitalgasse These two streets bisect the city and are lined with dozens of shops tour the Medieval Crime & Punishment Museum These snowball-sized pastries are prominently displayed in bakery windows as the town Spezialitat Imagine a flavorless unsalted piecrust cut into strips then dusted with powdered sugar or chocolate — and you’ve got Schneeballs EATThere is no shortage of eateries in Market Square and Old Town But if you’d like to get away from the crowds and enjoy a nice beverage in a quiet This hidden gem is just a few short blocks off Market Square walk toward the Medieval Crime & Punishment Museum and St and you’ll see the restaurant’s patio tables in just a few hundred feet Entrées are reasonably priced at 8 to 14 euros KNOW BEFORE YOU GONot all Rothenburgs are created equal so make sure you put “Rothenburg ob der Tauber” into your GPS before you go Not simply “Rothenburg,” or “Rothenburg ob der” any other river Canada for the German National Tourist Office this week to bring Canadian travel trade media and industry partners up to speed on what’s new for 2024 and 2025 Canada for the GNTO (photo credit blanchephotographe.com)  The GNTO’s Montreal event alternates with its Toronto event every other year Flights are key for any overseas destination and Germany benefits from great lift from several Canadian gateways Brokjans noted that with 94 direct flights from Canada on Air Canada and Lufthansa Calgary and Vancouver to Frankfurt and Munich Getting the latest updates on travel to Germany (photo credit blanchephotographe.com) While Air Transat does not offer nonstop flights to Germany this destination remains accessible via Connectair by Air Transat Air Transat travellers have access to 10 German cities: Berlin the German carrier Condor Airlines connects Frankfurt to Canada with 20 seasonal flights per week from Vancouver in addition to an annual connection from Toronto overnight stays by Canadians in Germany were up 32.6% based on the preliminary statistics recorded to date representing Rothenburg (photo credit blanchephotographe.com) Germany’s the fourth country on the list for Canadians looking to travel across the pond Canadians prefer culture and heritage (40%) creative arts (17%) and luxury shopping (11%) Germany also has one of the richest theatre offerings in the world The country has no fewer than 80 opera houses and is able to offer 6,000 opera and operetta performances per year Germany’s 6,750 museums welcome no fewer than 114 million visitors per year the country of Goethe also has what it takes to hold its own: it has at least 200 Manuel Becher with the Bayreuth tourism board (photo credit blanchephotographe.com) the entire country can boast of having 300 restaurants that have earned at least one Michelin star delegates offered the latest updates on their destinations highlighting new features and upcoming events Berlin will celebrate the 35th anniversary of the fall of the infamous Berlin Wall would like to be known and appreciated for its art of living its museums and its status as the capital of Brandenburg which has inherited a new site on the UNESCO World Heritage List (namely Hernhutt) the opening of the Dresden Puppet Theatre Museum has been announced as well as the 20th anniversary of the reconstruction of the fabulous Frauenkirche representing Saxony (photo credit blanchephotographe.com) the city of Oelsnitz has also inaugurated Coalworld a museum dedicated to the former coal mines the 250th birthday of the famous romantic painter Caspar David Friedrich is being celebrated the city of Chemnitz will be one of the European capitals of culture while the 275th anniversary of Bach’s death will be marked in Leipzig the Sax Education learning platform has just been launched allowing travel advisors to learn more about this state through instructive videos If there is one medieval city that you must see in Germany – and even in Europe – it is Rothenburg this picture-postcard city is like a real-life fairy tale undoubtedly the most famous in the country Stuttgart continues to surf on its status as the German capital of the automobile with two museums dedicated to two of its most prestigious brands But the city is also worth a detour for its building designed by Le Corbusier as well as for its municipal library Well-known in Europe but little-known here the small town of Lindau straddles the border with Switzerland it serves as a base for a host of neighboring sites: the Rhine Falls (and not the Rhine) the Bregenz Festival and its famous floating stage on Lake Constance Gallen and the spectacular Aescher mountain which will be in its 113th edition next year the city of Bayreuth also boasts the most beautiful baroque opera in Europe which is among the 10 most visited sites in Germany These days preparations are also being made for the celebrations surrounding the 150th anniversary of the birth of Wagner who rests in Bayreuth and whose opera festival is one of the most famous in Europe For more information see Germany.travel. The GNTO is represented in Canada by VoX International This story originally ran at ProfessionVoyages.com Exclusive access to Canadian travel industry news Subscribe Now Our weekly email is chockful of interesting and relevant insights into Jewish history After a week-long ceasefire and the release of 110 Israeli hostages Hamas broke the ceasefire and Israel resumed its war against Hamas with 137 hostages still under Hamas control the Israeli government’s decision to negotiate with Hamas remains highly controversial and emotionally fraught Should Israel do whatever it takes to obtain the release of the hostages even if doing so may endanger many lives in the future Is it morally acceptable to release three Arab terrorists in exchange for every innocent Israeli Any discussion of this fraught question will be informed by the remarkable story of Rabbi Meir of Rothenburg Rabbi Meir suffered from antisemitism throughout his life while Rabbi Meir was studying under the tutelage of Rabbi Jehiel of Paris Pope Gregory IX ordered Louis IX of France to seize all Jewish texts in his realm Though Rabbi Jehiel publicly defended the Talmud against spurious charges of blasphemy the antisemitic French government condemned the Talmud and publicly burned 24 wagonloads of Talmudic manuscripts on June 17 wrote a powerful elegy describing the pain of this loss that is recited annually by Jews worldwide on the 9th of Av Rabbi Meir was imprisoned and held for an exorbitant ransom where he served as the rabbi of several large communities Universally acknowledged as the leading European authority on Jewish law and trained disciples who would later become the leading rabbis and scholars of Europe the German ruler Rudolf I designated the Jewish community as servi camerae regis or "serfs of the treasury," which meant Rudolf could directly tax the Jewish community on top of the heavy taxes already imposed by local nobles Rabbi Meir decided to leave Germany and move to the Land of Israel as the group traveled through the mountains of Lombardy an apostate Jew accompanying the archbishop of Mainz recognized him Rabbi Meir was arrested and brought back to Germany where he was imprisoned and held for an exorbitant ransom in the fortress of Ensisheim in Alsace Meïr of Rothenburg – Photo from the Museum of Rothenburg The Jewish community immediately set about raising great sums to free Rabbi Meir from captivity But as Rabbi Solomon Luria (1510-1573) later wrote Rabbi Meir of Rothenburg… who was held captive in the fortress at Ensisheim for several years and the king demanded from the communities a preposterous ransom The communities wished to pay but Rabbi Meir would not allow it saying that it is not permitted to ransom captives for more than their worth as he was an exceptionally great Torah scholar and there was none like him in Torah and piety in his generation and it is permissible to ransom him for all the money in the world… the rulers would take the greatest Torah scholar of each generation into captivity for ransom so great that the Jewish communities of the diaspora would not be able to ransom them and the Torah would be forgotten from Israel I also heard that the same evil ruler wanted to seize his student He heard about this and fled to Tulitila and was saved by God’s compassion and mercy the pious one [Rabbi Meir] said that it is better that a little wisdom be lost from Israel than the total loss of all Torah scholarship And this is the sign [that he was correct] that at that time they ceased seizing the sages of the diaspora.” (Yam Shel Shlomo His body was only returned to the Jewish community 14 years later when a wealthy Jew what would Rabbi Meir say about Israel’s hostage exchange with Hamas Maimonides writes: “There is no greater mitzvah than redeeming captives For a captive is among those who are hungry And one who averts his eyes from redeeming them transgresses ‘Do not harden your heart or shut your hand,’ and ‘Do not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor,’.. and nullifies the commandments of ‘You shall surely revive your brother’ and ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself’” (Maimonides Now that some of the hostages have been freed we know that Hamas terrorists tortured and starved them while they were in captivity Every moment the remaining hostages spend in captivity under the control of Hamas is a danger to their lives and they are almost certainly suffering from trauma Redeeming captives as quickly as possible is a matter of life and death The sages explain that we “must not ransom captives for more than their value for the good order of the world” (Babylonian Talmud to free their loved ones whom have been taken hostage the enemies of our people will only be encouraged to kidnap more Jews in the future The people of Israel learned this truth the hard way on October 7 Israel released 1,027 convicted terrorists in exchange for Corporal Gilad Shalit a soldier who was kidnapped by Hamas six years earlier Though the price was unquestionably exorbitant – 1,207 terrorists for one soldier – the deal was supported by a majority of Israelis who desperately wanted to bring Shalit home a lopsided deal like the Gilad Shalit exchange only encourages antisemites to abduct more Jews Among the terrorists released in 2011 was Yahya Sinwar the now infamous leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip and the mastermind of the October 7 massacre and abduction there are significant differences between his story and the current situation it does not appear that Rabbi Meir’s life was at any point in danger several of whom have already been murdered by Hamas Some rabbis argue that when hostages’ lives are stake the normal rules forbidding exorbitant ransom fees do not apply for Jews are required to break almost of the rules of the Torah in order to save a life argue that we must not pay exorbitant fees even to save a life for doing so will only endanger the lives of other Jews in the future When grappling with the demands of terrorists like Hamas Whereas Rabbi Meir’s case was deeply traumatic and potentially dangerous to the Jewish community the kidnappers were motivated by financial considerations Hamas is fighting a genocidal war against Israel in which the very survival of the Jewish nation is at stake the normal rules of redeeming captives are suspended for any concession to the enemy is likely to be perceived as a dangerous sign of weakness Should Israel negotiate another ceasefire with Hamas to release more hostages It’s hard to imagine a more painful dilemma When the Canaanite king of Arad attacked the Israelites as they wandered through the wilderness Moses did not enter into negotiations for her release the people went to war and freed the hostage by destroying the enemy the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) but the terrorists held 56 Jewish passengers in custody some rabbis argued that due to Rabbi Hutner’s unique status the hostages should be redeemed even at an exorbitant price Hijacking of TWA plane by Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine But Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetsky (1891-1986) disagreed arguing that the standard rules of redeeming captives only apply during a time of peace it is forbidden to redeem hostages for financial payments for doing so actively assists and strengthens the enemy that is trying to destroy the Jewish people Israel was required to allow large amounts of “humanitarian aid” to enter Gaza which was soon confiscated by Hamas terrorists Will these supplies assist and strengthen Hamas in their genocidal war against Israel and endanger the lives of Israeli soldiers May God give Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Israeli government the wisdom and strength to choose correctly and may all of the hostages soon be freed and returned to their families May the time come when Israel and the covenant people return to following His Torah "May HaShem give Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Israeli government the wisdom and strength to choose correctly Israel should have instituted the death penalty for all the terrorists now sitting in prison some say never to negotiate with anyone holding hostages but that can have grave consequences for those being held Hamas knows they are going to be destroyed so it is difficult to understand why they would negotiate at all My first reaction is to say don't negotiate but when I think of those being held and their families I can only imagine that they would want Israel to do everything possible to obtain their release and only way to deal with terrorist is to kill them There should be no trading no bartering no deals until they are dead and anyone who supports them should also die The dome of the rock should be leveled in all Israeli territory return to Israel and live as a people with strength and stubbornness that we are Jew we will not die My response is to inform the kidnappers that 10,000 Hamas fighters will die if the kidnapped are not released Julius Caesar's ultimate response to his kidnapper pirates should be ours You eliminate these problems by massive retaliation I would like to see the Israeli government consult with our two Chief Rabbis of Israel which can inform the leaders of the government who are making these life and death decisions https://jewishreviewofbooks.com/israel/15128/rabbi-ovadia-yosef-and-the-halakhot-of-hostages-part-2/ https://jewishreviewofbooks.com/contemporary-israel/14972/rabbi-ovadia-yosefs-and-the-halakhot-of-hostages-part-i/# Rav Ovadia Yosef Z'L has a Teshuva on the topic he Paskined you do make such deals and that in a discusison at the time with R I am sorry I don't have a source a heard it in a shiur I pray for the international organizations and the western world to open their eyes and their hearts be touched with the truth that you speak Thank you for elucidating the complexity of our current situation The government will be condemned whatever it decides However I pray strongly that the prime minister Netanyahu find the wisdom and support to take the extreme difficult decision with respect to what to do with the hostages: accept ceasefire and risk more (soldiers) lives The situation is even more complex than that because civilian lives are also threatened when terrorists are released the choice is even worse than the one between Scylla and Charibdis (continued) Rabbi Mischel initially seems to argue that more negotiation should have been pursued but then he reverses tack and questions the morality of releasing three Arab terrorists in exchange for every innocent Israeli Without knowledge of the complex multilateral negotiations which involved the US State Department and the Qatari government Thank you for signing up for the aish.com free newsletter Catering Insight Ecofast UK has formed an exclusive partnership with Rothenburg GmbH a specialist manufacturer and installer of wet waste disposal systems The collaboration will allow Ecofast UK to combine its own extensive product portfolio with Rothenburg’s offering and supply its equipment to the UK market Rothernburg has developed and built cutting-edge vacuum waste technology for more than 35 years said: “Rothenburg’s modular vacuum systems have an enviable reputation for efficiency and sustainability and are the perfect complement to our own portfolio of equipment solutions “As well as enabling us to further our mission to optimise the waste management process their proven technology will complement our commitment to providing waste solutions that meet the highest industry standards and relevant legislation.” With 500 installed systems international sales and service partners worldwide the company is committed to ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and offering a speedy first-class service Ecofast UK has quickly established itself as a leading authority on the subject and this is reflected in the quality and performance of its products “We see them as the ideal partner for Rothenburg GmbH in the UK and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship that will give foodservice operators in the UK access to the very best food waste management systems.” Experience a blend of German-style charm and Suzhou-style life where you can indulge in beer and performances at the 19th Taicang Rothenburg Beer Festival located less than an hour's drive from the Shanghai Hongqiao area held the grand opening of the 19th Rothenburg Beer Festival The opening ceremony featured high-energy singing and dancing performances by several German bands Representatives of foreign businesses and Chinese tourists came together to drink heartily and savor the sweet taste of friendship This year's beer festival will last from August 8th to August 16th it fully embodies the cultural essence of the Munich Oktoberfest allowing everyone to experience a rich German-flavored beer feast even in the Jiangnan water towns As the German proverb "Bier ist Freundschaft" says Known as the "hometown of German enterprises," Taicang hopes this beer festival will broaden platforms for Sino-German cooperation and exchanges the Taicang Beer Festival has been held around the same time as the world-famous Oktoberfest in Munich stating that as someone born in northern Germany he is especially thankful for the opportunity to experience a southern German tradition in Taicang cheers tonight!" Sommer exclaimed at the opening ceremony The first Beer Festival was held in Taicang in November 2006 the annual Beer Festival became one of the representative cultural exchange activities in Taicang's cooperation with Germany The Taicang Rothenburg Beer Festival has become the most direct manifestation of the accolade that German businesses regard Taicang as a "second hometown," setting a model example for Sino-German cooperation and exchange 1.Comments will appear only after being approved by our team so it might be a while before your comment is posted 2.In accordance with the Regulations on Internet News and Information Services and other related laws and regulations of the People's Republic of China comments should not contain anything that is obscene Please [ Login ] to leave a comment Vidya Amalia Rimayanti TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - As the carols chime in and the streets are beautifully adorned with twinkling lights, there is nothing more rewarding than spending this year’s miraculous occasion in one of the best Christmas towns in the world.  Let’s take a tour of the world’s Christmas destinations where the magical festivity is well celebrated throughout the year.  Time Out shares the best Christmas towns in the world and other astounding places as follows:  Crowned as one strenuous character of the best Christmas towns in the world Rovaniemi prides itself as the ‘Official Hometown of Santa Claus’ for its renowned Santa Claus Village amusement park the Christmas spirit becomes especially magical in the heart of Lapland With the edge of the Arctic Circle just five miles away the white Christmas town promises joyous days calling for sleigh rides.  Do you know that there is a dreamy neighborhood nestled between Munich and Frankfurt? Widely known as one of Germany’s best-preserved walled towns and home to the German Christmas Museum Rothenburg ob der Tauber is worth every penny spent The town’s December present is a Christmas-themed vacation for all visitors.  you will meet one of Europe’s best Christmas markets where you can treat your taste buds to a bite of the iconic Rothenburg Schneeballen.  Dreaming of a Christmas ambiance in the middle of summer? The United States has you covered with the existence of the North Pole just a 15-minute drive from Alaska’s Fairbanks While the painted candy canes all along the street fascinate you beyond wonder take a few more steps into the town and pay a visit to the Santa Claus House Gift.  Perhaps much of France should make the list of the best Christmas towns in the world for the magical feelings they exude Not only do they glow during the winter holy month but their festivities buzz all year round with the presence of the town’s cobbled lanes are you in for the holiday set on the 17th-century facades As a testament to France’s ecstatic atmosphere another nominee for best Christmas town in the world comes from the nation features a uniquely traditional architectural style around its surreal landscape it is recommended to visit the city during wintertime.  Gdask lives up to its white winter title all year round The city is also home to open-air markets that offer everything the festive season if your families are on the lookout for some Christmas cheer take a mini tour of Poland’s late-Renaissance buildings Santa Claus town does not wait for the folklore character to come in December presenting big festive-themed celebrations from a Santa Claus Museum to Santa’s Candy Castle the town also has a post office that receives thousands of letters from children sent to Santa Claus.  concludes the list of the best Christmas towns in the world this Florida town has a decorated tree standing out all year What makes it even more popular is the Christmas postmark that appears on every greeting card From enchanting markets to lighted streets, the best Christmas towns in the world invite you to experience the holiday in its most vibrant and memorable form. So, pack your bags, let the carols guide you, and step into a world where Christmas dreams do come true. Don’t miss the opportunity to include the best Christmas markets in Europe in your itinerary.  Editor’s Choice: Top 10 Best Christmas Buffets in Singapore 2024 Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News What Are the Cheapest Businesses to Start from Home? Here Are the Top 10 Hollywood Shaken as Trump Orders 100% Tariff on All Foreign-Made Films Where to Go in May? Here Are the Top 12 Destinations Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock Reunite After 30 Years for New Film Project Vesak 2025: Borobudur Temple to Host Thousands of Devotees with Spiritual Celebrations Tripdvisor Reveals the Best Hotel in the World for 2025 Your Ultimate Guide: 7 Summer Vacation Tips The Pope's Role in Major Events of the Modern Era World's Best Muslim-Friendly Country Destinations, Indonesia Ranks First Explore 10 Asian Seafood Delicacies: From Unagi to Mentaiko Trump is the Symptom of Deeper American Malaise Microsoft Hikes Global Prices for Xbox Consoles and Games French Prosecutor Says Mosque Attacker's Motive Not Linked to Terrorism France Forge Partnership for Sustainable Mining Practices List of Countries That Experienced Massive Blackouts Top 10 Strongest Militaries in the World: United States Remains at the Forefront Today's Top 3 News: How to Sell Rare Coins Spain-Portugal Reeling from Massive Blackout: Impact Unfolds Ships Should Sail Free Through Suez and Panama Canals Mark Carney Leads Liberal Party to Win in Canada Prabowo to Host Cambodian Senate President This Afternoon Sistine Chapel Prepares for the Election of New Pope Anthony Albanese Makes Indonesia His First Visit After Winning Australian Election JYP Entertainment Apologizes for DAY6 Concert Chaos in Jakarta AJI, UNESCO Declare Commitment to Support Digital Security of Student Press BGN Chief Aims for Zero Accidents in Free Nutritious Meal Program Inside Sistine Chapel: 5 Key Facts About the Conclave's Iconic Venue Prabowo Praises Jokowi's Inflation Control in Cabinet Session, Denies Link to Gibran's Presence Exposing Trump's Move on Mike Waltz Dismissal Prabowo Rejects 'Puppet President' Label, Denies Jokowi's Control Manpower Minister Unveils Reasons Behind Over 24,000 Layoffs by April 2025 Prabowo Claims 99.99% Success Rate for Free Nutritious Meal Program Jobs That AI Will Replace: Is Your Current Job at Risk? Indonesia and Japan Deepen Strategic Alliance in Clean Energy and Infrastructure Top 10 Highest-Paying Majors Worth Pursuing in 2025 Six Dead, Dozens Injured in India's Goa Religious Festival Stampede I opened a nearly untouched cabinet in a spare room at my parents’ house and there it was — an antique cast iron piggy bank that I had gifted my mom a few Christmases back I’ve altered my approach to holiday gift giving sure to leave them with plenty of priceless memories that can’t be returned to the store or stashed away in some random drawer get a vacation out of it offsets the considerable price difference of an Airbnb versus a practical sweater for my dad and a vintage knick-knack for my mom The destination is revealed via a handmade brochure: a guide to Railroad Pennsylvania with plans to ride a historic diesel locomotive along the Northern Central Railway or an invitation to stay in a restored 18th-century stone house in New Jersey the brochure’s cover showed a storybook Bavarian-style village with fachwerk To which I’d reply: Do you really think I’d jump from antique piggy banks and sweaters to round-trip airfare to Europe unless I had discovered profound inspiration (or a winning lottery ticket) in a piggy bank of my own But Stoudtburg Village a mere hour-and-a-half drive from my parents’ house is easy enough to confuse with a medieval German town If Bavaria’s renowned Rothenburg ob der Tauber is too far for a weekend jaunt Stoudtburg Village’s muted rainbow houses with their steeply pitched red roofs will fill in just fine Pennsylvania Dutch County’s answer to Old World charm is modeled after the iconic tourist destination right down to the centerpiece fountain (though Rothenburg’s depiction of St George the dragon slayer has been replaced by Peaches the nymph for the stateside interpretation) Rothenburg’s appeal goes beyond just the aesthetic Tourists crowd the cobblestone streets not only in search of scenic backdrops but also for the chance to travel back in time As one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval towns Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a portal to the past with a rich history from its designation as a free imperial city in 1274 to the incredible tale of a 17th-century mayor who protected the village during the Thirty Years’ War by accepting a challenge to drink 3.25 liters of wine in one go But it does come with its own charming backstory Ed Stoudt opened Stoudt’s Kountry Kitchen in Adamstown When the savvy Stoudt — only 20-something at the time but taught well by his restaurateur parents — noticed how many steaks he was selling he rebranded as Stoudts Black Angus Restaurant and worked 100-hour weeks hand-trimming each and every steak a young kindergarten teacher named Carol Texter walked into the Black Angus for the first time From one fateful cocktail came a romance that Carol fell in love again — with a pilsner at Augustiner-Bräu that took a captivating seven minutes to pour into an elongated glass and she’d go on to become the first female brewmaster since Prohibition It was partly due to a technicality that Carol Stoudt led the charge for Stoudts Brewing Company in 1987 — Pennsylvania law prohibited brewpubs at the time as owner of the Black Angus and its adjoining beer garden could not manufacture beer to be sold on the premises she took her zeal for German beers and ran with it No matter that imported hops from Germany and what was then Czechoslovakia cost an arm and a leg compared to domestic options; her products would follow the Reinheitsgebot tradition with only four ingredients — barley malt where she chose from the comprehensive Weihenstephan yeast bank in Freising the German concept of “like-minded people having a great time together,” as Carol put it Stoudtburg would come nearly a decade later a testament to the Stoudts’ unwavering dedication to all things German Steps away from the brewery where Ed Stout would play his tuba at the front of a jubilant Oktoberfest conga line construction began on an idyllic Bavarian-style neighborhood where shop owners living directly above their storefronts could enjoy views of the village plaza or a koi pond and a true sense of gemütlichkeit with their fellow residents As if each Stoudtburg Village homeowner had received a handbook of German phrases upon the signing of the lease, our Airbnb hosts also promised the experience of “gemütlichkeit” (this time translated as “coziness”) in the listing’s description but several of the properties are available through Airbnb and Vrbo Our accommodations were smack-dab in the center of the action with a view from the kitchen window of Peaches the nymph clutching a magnificent fish and the town’s tavern just beyond the cherubic fountain topper the illusion of having landed in Germany via Pennsylvania farm roads continued with details like an ornately carved throne chair and the quintessential snapshot of Rothenburg ob der Tauber on a shower curtain it’s not the accents and languages of passersby that reveal Rothenburg’s aesthetic match as an imitation — it’s the lack of passersby altogether despite what a picture-perfect image suited for a postcard or shower curtain may suggest is nearly always crowded with literal busloads of tourists lured in by the romance of gallivanting around the walled medieval town Many reviews start out the same: “Maybe we came in the wrong season as they try to steer future visitors toward smarter choices is necessary to make the most of the Stoudtburg Village experience That was Ed Stoudt’s vision for the village if not quite to the scope of Stoudt’s ambitions a self-taught gourd artist who sells her art in a ground-level shop of her Stoudtburg Village house “I could be upstairs making a grilled cheese sandwich then I hear the bell and go down,” she said Drover sold the home she had shared with him in Harrisonville a 1.5-acre property with a chicken coop and an in-ground pool that required too much upkeep for her alone She wasn’t familiar with Stoudtburg Village but the unconventional listing caught her eye but you can have your own small business here,” the description for the three-story townhouse read the extra space could be used for a family room Zoned for both residential and commercial use Drover had no need for an extra family room. To her, the first floor felt like an opportunity to sell her art without having to lug around a slew of gourds from one craft show to another. In November 2020, she moved into her new home; her shop, Outta My Gourds Among the Stoudts’ myriad business ventures was Stoudts Black Angus Antiques Mall a 70,000-square-foot shopping destination that began with just 10 vendors in the basement of the Black Angus Ed Stoudt dubbed Adamstown “Antiques Capital The area’s antique malls — Angus Antiques (in the former Stoudts space) among others — offer visitors the chance for an all-day shopping extravaganza where the smattering of stores can provide an hour’s enjoyment Directly next to Outta My Gourd is Fire Kissed Jewelry where jewelry designer Andrea Binetti sells handmade flamed copper earrings and polished red dinosaur bones framed in copper or silver with pierced Tyrannosaurus rex designs on the back Binetti stumbled upon Stoudtburg Village via online listing like being in the German portion of Epcot without the rides,” Binetti was sold She moved to Stoudtburg in November of 2020 and opened her shop the following May where they’re just as likely to walk away with a 19th-century Victorian bride’s basket as they are an antique tablecloth (owner Dee Looper will give customers a lesson on caring for the latter) At Out of This World Oddities retired NYPD officer Joe Knedlhans stocks the shelves of his small storefront with decades-old toys and gadgets that will delight children and adults alike (my parents and I spent far too long playing with a “Grab-N-Gabs” talking elf from 2012 before purchasing it for my cousin’s kids) But the real delight of the shop comes from the display cases jam-packed with Knedlhans’ own collection of toy robots from the immediately recognizable “Star Wars” droids to the circa-1950s Robert the Robot Ask Knedlhans for a description of any single robot lining the shelves of the Toy Robot Museum or dangling from the ceiling Equally impressive is the massive Lego train display that takes up nearly every square foot of the Little Brick Gallery who first set up shop in Stoudtburg two years prior Those feeling inspired by Schamus’ masterpiece can purchase Lego bricks of their own organized in containers by color or sold as sets Then, a visit to Zen Squirrel is in order for Ayurvedic skincare products and handmade spice blends designed by a local herbalist who runs Zen Squirrel alongside her husband Ryke or attend an outdoor class on the plaza in warmer weather That brings us back to the best time to visit Stoudtburg Village We spent a three-day span in late July living the faux-Bavarian lifestyle and the village was as bustling as I’d imagine a small pocket of Adamstown Choosing a weekend helped too. Many of the shops are open from Friday to Saturday only, and no later than 4 p.m. or so. Come evening, the townspeople gather at the Village Haus Bar and Grill staking their claim on the restaurant’s outdoor tables for an evening of live music but I wholeheartedly enjoyed my meal at the Village Haus We were welcomed into the empty seats at a table full of residents and conversation with complete strangers felt as natural as catching up with old friends Currently, the Village Haus is Stoudtburg’s only restaurant, save for Village Perk and Crafts a charming coffee shop with an assortment of pastries to quell morning cravings (owner Jimi Hawthorne is also a talented seamstress and can hem a dress or craft a custom blanket) part of the IronSpire complex that took over the space Nearly every shop mentioned in a 2008 LancasterOnline article has since closed from the wine shop that occupied the first floor of a purple-and-lime stucco building to the Village Sweet Shoppe that once sold chocolate covered strawberries and licorice from nine different countries Plans for a casual Italian restaurant never panned out and the BYOB-friendly Kaffee Prost is no more and a music conservatory have all shuttered the Berks County-based building company responsible for the earliest construction although former president Bob Achey remains heavily involved in Stoudtburg Village — when Kaffee Prost closed in 2011 Achey swooped in and opened the Village Haus within three weeks There’s an ever-present promise that Stoudtburg Village will Responses to TripAdvisor reviews have sung the same tune from 2011 (“We expect bigger and better things to come for Stoudtburg Village”) to 2018 (“It's a process but hopefully we will get more active in the near future”) Increased optimism came in 2016 with the involvement of Keystone Custom Homes and the subsequent construction of new buildings Keystone’s additions were vaguer in their Bavarian inspiration than the initial Rothenburg replicas and many forwent the option of a ground-level shop Their higher square footage and grassy lawns proved appealing to families bringing further vitality to the community are not confined to the boundaries of Stoudtburg Village and should they exhaust their entertainment options at the shops the surrounding area is not lacking in places of interest We cut our own flowers at Farm Wagon Produce Market an enormous Amish farmers’ market open only on Fridays We ate hot dogs and ice cream at Boehringer's Drive-In just a 4-minute drive from Stoudtburg; we ate more ice cream at Sweet Ride Ice Cream in West Reading and then again at Lapp Valley Farms Creamery My mom led the charge from one antique store to the next (no vintage piggy banks were purchased) the temperature dropped just enough for us to gather around the fireplace in our Airbnb’s living room and we played several lively rounds of the board game Balderdash There was that coziness our hosts had promised and as wonderful as our full itinerary of activities had been little could compete with the simple pleasure of quality family time And so go to Stoudtburg Village in the summer Go with an appetite for German food or cheesesteaks and go with a willingness to connect with the townspeople over live music and beer and you’ll soon learn that you don't have to fly all the way to Germany for a much-needed weekend of gemütlichkeit Evie loves the sport and has taken great pride in developing her game and she always strives to be the best competitor she can be.This past season Evie demonstrated her role as a teammate that others can rely on.  As a second year player on the Greenfoot Capitals she led by example on the ice by playing hard and including everyone in team activities.She hates to lose and works to help her team in any way that she can Evie works on her game regularly and can be found on the ice and in the gym throughout the summer Evie took her compete level to a new high this season as she finished fourth in team scoring and had the third most goals on the team She also led the team in power play goals.Evie’s work ethic allows her to play and lead at the highest levels of the game and she knows it is important to balance hockey with other sports she also plays soccer and maintains good grades despite her demanding sport schedule Evie also knows that it is important to give back to the game She is very deserving of the Bill Riley Award.On Dec Amherst’s Bill Riley made history by becoming the third Black player to skate in the National Hockey League and the first of African Nova Scotian descent when he suited up for the Washington Capitals.The hard-working and respected winger would go on to spend parts of five seasons in the NHL with the Capitals and Winnipeg Jets scoring 31 goals and adding 30 assists in 139 career games.On behalf of everyone at Hockey Nova Scotia we would like to congratulate Evie on winning our 2024 Bill Riley Award When Taylor Rothenburg ’18MAT graduated college with a dual business and Spanish degree in 2014, she never thought she would quit her job in a sales after a year.  she tells us in an edited interview how she made the transition from sales to education and how that jump led her to a near-perfect score on the edTPA subject-specific assessment and support system used to emphasize measure and support the skills and knowledge that all teachers need from their first day in the classroom I chose to attend NC State College of Education after realizing sales wasn’t for me because a lot of my friends attended as teaching fellows I started as a political science major with the intention of going to law school My decision was between education and business As an 18-year-old who didn’t know what I wanted I chose business because it seemed logical but I couldn’t see myself at my company long term so I chose to quit my job and continue volunteering while figuring out my next move I volunteer with the Miracle League — a sporting league dedicated to providing opportunities for children with disabilities to play baseball — because I’ve always liked little kids I’ve volunteered since I was a sophomore in high school but volunteering with Miracle League is so rewarding These kids wouldn’t be able to participate in a regular team activity so Miracle League gives them a chance to play their parents get to see them doing something normal like playing baseball I enrolled in the Master’s of Art in Teaching in Special Education because of my work with the Miracle League and Specialized Recreation and Inclusion Services here in Raleigh One requirement for graduation is the edTPA It’s an analysis of knowledge gained from your program and a reflection of your own teaching go through an individualized education program (IEP) for that student then develop a lesson plan incorporating those goals I had to film the lesson plan and find 20 minutes of film to analyze to describe what I did There are three scored tasks within the edTPA — planning and a score of 45 is considered mastery level The most significant takeaway was learning to be flexible and there wasn’t a single day that everything went the way I planned it to go Filming the process added another level of pressure that I felt a fire drill or if another child in the classroom acted out I just had to learn how to let it happen and be okay with it My time in the classroom was a really interesting experience because the students were all different grade levels Being able to adapt and meet every kid at their level especially in a cross-categorical classroom It taught me to take time to get to know the students Golub Capital has hired for business development and direct lending investment expertise with an eye toward opportunities in Europe The new hires in the London office are Daniel von Rothenburg The $60 billion credit firm welcomed von Rothenburg in 2022 as a managing director and head of EMEA on the business development and investor relations team He had been a managing director at New End and before that spent over 16 years at Oaktree Capital Management Schroeder and Lambie join the firm’s direct lending team from Apollo Global Management Schroeder worked on the direct originations team at Apollo and will now serve as a senior director on the direct lending team focused on Europe Lambie was a principal at Apollo and is now a principal on the direct lending team in London alongside Schroeder Golub Capital has made nearly $9 billion in financing commitments to European deals across more than 80 transactions Tara Moore was brought on board from Guggenheim Partners to lead the team in 2020 “European investors have become increasingly interested in private credit recognizing its ability to deliver consistent “We look forward to meeting this growing demand building on our nearly 30 years of success in nurturing long-term In 2022, Golub’s global sponsor finance platform closed nearly $23 billion in commitments across more than 220 transactions. At the end of the year, Korea Investment Corporation (KIC) announced the expansion of its strategic partnership with Golub Capital with a passive credit investment firm’s management companies "As European private equity sponsors participate in more cross-border transactions they are looking for financing partners like us who have the ability to offer best-in-class scalable lending solutions as well as multi-currency facilities," said Moore managing director and head of European Originations at Golub Capital "We are excited about the opportunity ahead as we continue to deepen new and existing relationships with sponsors throughout the region bringing the full strength of the Golub Capital platform to bear." 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Send help right to the people and causes you care about Your donation is protected by the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee Patricia Black was willing to drive to downtown Detroit from East Lansing to solve a family mystery I believe brought from Germany by my aunt after World War II,” she wrote to the column in an email “It says original ____ but I can’t read the name Would love to know what it is and have someone take a look at it.” That “someone” was DuMouchelle appraiser Jim Flannery who examined Black’s family heirloom during a recent Trash or Treasure appraisal session held at the downtown gallery and auction house The image shows a European street scene of a clock tower with timbered buildings It has hallmarks and crests in the lower left and writing on the lower right Black filled Flannery in on additional background at the event “My aunt was in Germany during World War II and worked with the USO,” she explained “This was one of the things she brought back in the 1940s.” the appraiser first corrected her on the medium “which he said is a colored etching originally done on copper and reproduced on paper” and not a painting or canvas The informative website artoftheprint.com had a little more information about the artist: “A twentieth century German painter and etcher Ernst Geissendorfer studed art techniques in Nuremberg In the decade of the 1930s he traveled and worked extensively Geissendorfer returned to live in Rothenburg and assumed control of the family art gallery there Ernst Geissendorfer served as Town Councillor of Rothenburg during the 1960s Ernst Geissendorfer usually produced small uncoloured etchings he created much larger etchings to which he applied hand-colouring.” Black’s work is known as “Rothenburg ob der Tauber,” and is one of the artist’s many well-known prints The town dates to 1274 and sits on the Tauber River “Rothenburg is in Bavaria and is a charming and well-preserved medieval town,” Flannery explained Because the piece is nicely framed and matted adding “the problem these days is that unfortunately etchings don’t bring a lot at auction anymore.” Black ultimately decided to leave the piece behind at the auction house and take her chances on the market “It’s been on the wall a long time,” she explained “I have a lot of things that I’ve had for years and it’s time to let go.” Do you have an object you would like to know more about Send a photo and description that includes how you acquired the object to: The Detroit News Include your name and daytime telephone number If chosen you’ll need to bring the items to an appraisal session I decided to spend part of the day strolling around the well-preserved medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber which in German means “Red fortress above the Tauber” The town is perched on a plateau overlooking the Tauber river which is why the surrounding wall that guards the town against potential enemies is only needed around part of the perimeter Though I was not in a Christmas mood on a sunny spring day in Germany I decided I had to peruse through Käthe Wohlfahrt coined as “The world famous Christmas Shop” having traveled over 2 hours from Munich by bus to get to Rothenburg I was enchanted with the wooden Christmas pyramids that Germany has become renowned for My mother-in-law has a tiny one which she puts out for Christmas morning breakfast My aunt has one that is at least two tiers For those that do not know what a Christmas Pyramid is it is a wooden sculpture that turns around on a glass bearing and has propellers on the top that spin the sculpture when hot air created by the candles which one lights below are lit they were invented by the poor who could not afford a real Christmas tree What was a simple substitute for a real tree is now an elaborate art form Käthe Wohlfahrt has by far the widest selection of Pyramids that I could find in Rothenburg I had a difficult time choosing one from the many they had from about three different companies in Germany I finally decided on a medium sized one crafted by Müller Kleinkunst a company founded by Oswald Müller in 1899 that made toys and miniatures It took me over half an hour to examine each pyramid in the store and finally select this one It was not too small that it would disappear on the dining table during Christmas Yet not too big that it looses the charm and delicate nature of the piece which drew me to them in the first place I liked the mix of exotic woods that give the piece depth without overpowering like some of the painted pyramids I liked the traditional look of the natural wood grain I liked having the Christmas tree motif in the center and although there were other manufacturers that also had this motif only these ones in the store made by Müller Kleinkunst had the branches fully curled I thought this took greater skill to craft The piece will be shipped home as I have little faith I would be able to carry such a delicate piece home in one piece CULTURE LIFESTYLE FILMMAKING/TECH ATELIER STARK FILMS sharing a juicy piece of gossip could earn the speaker a punishment of wearing a humiliation mask A similar fate awaited men who told lascivious jokes and those who interfered in other people’s business A physical equivalent of social media shaming several centuries before Facebook and Twitter the masks were fashioned out of iron and had exaggerated features representing each specific social misconduct The “gossip” mask has long ears and glasses and an even longer tongue to show that the wearer was likely to spread the information quickly and indiscreetly A number of these shame masks or schandmaske intended to publicly humiliate the people perpetrating these acts are on display at the Medieval Crime Museum in Rothenburg From social shaming tools to more physically torturous devices the museum chronicles the brutal history of over 1,000 years of crime and punishment in Germany and other parts of Europe The painful private collection curated by a German publisher in the late-19th century was first housed and it took on the shape of a more expansive museum under the guidance of an artist couple in 1977 and displays over 50,000 objects relating to law and order as it was enforced and structured in the medieval era and thereafter.  For baking bread loaves that were too small or light bakers were locked into a cage and dunked repeatedly into water and off-key musicians were spotlighted with a shame flute fastened around their necks An entire section is dedicated to the treatment of women and to the terrible witch-hunt which took place in the Bavarian region in the 17th century. The beauty of the delicate carvings on a choke pear is swiftly overshadowed by its terrifying purpose—it was inserted into orifices of the human body and slowly turned so that each leaf expanded and the victim quickly admitted to his or her crime More torture devices cruelly designed to extract confessions from suspected criminals line the walls of this museum The more procedural aspects of the legal system in the form of documents and trade exhibits are also on display and but the overwhelming tone is gruesome and chilling.  The museum is in the south-west corner of the historic city centre not far from the main square (Marktplatz) and close to the Kobolzell Gate and Plönlein Tower entrances The nearest of the town's peripheral car parks are by the Plönlein Tower is only 15 minutes' walk away.From April to October the museum is open from 10 a.m and from November to March it's opening hours are 1 p.m to 4 p.m.The majority of exhibition pieces feature English and Chinese descriptions alongside German Medieval torture techniques with a modern conscience This 16th-century pole was once used in brutal public executions See Malta’s history through the recreation of scenes of torture using life-sized mannequins in a former medieval dungeon A display of torture devices used in the Spanish Inquisition and other scourges of medieval Europe Extensive private collection of authentic Medieval devices used for human torture and execution This 16th-century building features a flamenco stage on its ground floor and a torture museum on its upper floors Discover everything there is to know about Catalan giants and "Big-Heads." Too many automated requests from this network By dallasnews Administrator Germany — Should Rothenburg ob der Tauber want to rid itself of tourists Baumgartner strides through the medieval walled village in costume followed by up to 300 tourists — sometimes picking up more as he goes along rather than leading the group to a dark future he takes them on an entertaining journey through the town’s past an Eric Idle look-alike with a dry wit and engaging manner has been leading Night Watchman tours for 25 years His tour received a TripAdvisor Award of Excellence in 2014 and the vast majority of the more than 470 reviews on the site are five-star raves Not bad for a guy who was a painfully shy child and had never spoken in public before taking the job was studying newspaper and magazine production which was “more boring than I thought it would be,” when he saw a newspaper article about Rothenburg needing a new Night Watchman tour guide after the death of the man who had done it for a decade News RoundupsCatch up on the day's news you need to know GoogleFacebookBy signing up you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy “I was really excited,” Baumgartner says. “I thought this was something I have to do. It was like a voice telling me, ‘Go ahead, man. That’s your thing.’ I followed my voice.” Nobody in Rothenburg wanted the job, he says, because it required giving the tour every night. “Maybe they didn’t see such a big chance behind this,” he says. “But I saw the chance and thought it’s something I have to do. Thank God I did.” Baumgartner was neither a performer nor a historian when he applied for the job. The city gave him history books to read and tested him on his knowledge — and he passed and got the job. Some people are turned off when they see the size of the groups that gather for the Night Watchman tour each evening, but Baumgartner is skilled at keeping even large groups engaged, and enjoys the challenge. In fact, he still shudders remembering leading a tour of just one person. “It was in November and it was lousy and cold and ugly outside,” he says. He tried to talk to the woman who showed up out of taking the tour, but she was adamant. “It’s horrible,” Baumgartner says. “It lasts forever. You think it’s not going to end because there’s no walking and waiting for people to come over. This person is right by you all the time. But I made it somehow.” Between the tours and Die Kleiderey, a boutique he owns with his wife, the couple (you might see them zipping around town on their Segways) are able to spend two months each winter relaxing on a remote beach in Thailand, where the only tourists are Thais who visit on weekends. “Ahhh, it’s a dream,” he says. By any measure, the Night Watchman tour is a huge success for Baumgartner. To what does he attribute its popularity? “I wish I knew,” he says. “My wife says I give my parts of myself into my speech. I speak with my soul, or with my heart. It’s funny — people feel something special or they are attracted by my voice or how I say things. It’s been that way through my history, through my life.” Of course, Baumgartner would never want to Pied Piper tourists out of Rothenburg. They’ve been good to him. And he is grateful to that voice in his heart that spoke to him all those years ago — even though he was a little shaky the first time out. “I was 38. I stood on the market square and there were maybe 25 people, and I thought, that’s a crowd. I was scared,” he says. “But once you do it and you jump over your own fear, next time it’s even better and it’s getting normal, and you get used to it. Now there are 200 people and I think ‘How cool is that?’” Sophia Dembling is author of "100 Places in the USA Every Woman Should Go." Night Watchman tours meet at 8 every night in the market square in front of Town Hall. nightwatchman.de. Thank you for reading. We welcome your thoughts on this topic. Comments are moderated for adherence to our Community Guidelines Please read the guidelines before participating Fayrisya Maliha Riyawati Soehadi Putri TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A visit to the most beautiful towns in the world promises every traveler an ultimate experience and charming cultures are just a glimpse of what would’ve been waiting for you As highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler and TimeOut this article explores the top 10 most beautiful towns in the world where you can enjoy a trip to the delightful laid-back destinations adorned with their unique charm Continue to read to discover the full list Have you ever imagined stepping into a fairytale world Rothenburg ob der Tauber can turn it into a reality is best known for the breathtaking medieval architecture that feels straight out of a storybook Charming cobblestone streets and romantic vistas are sure to enlighten you especially during winter when the town transformed into a magical Christmas land Sidi Bou Said comes in second place of the most beautiful towns in the world for its enchanting atmosphere The town is stunningly scattered with the combination of white and blue hues evoking the charm of Santorini but without the overwhelming crowds Every corner of Sidi Bou Said feels like a living postcard enriched with cozy guesthouses and charming cafes celebrated by both locals and tourists alike California’s Carmel-by-the-Sea can be a great option Every traveler favors this gem’s unique charm which seamlessly blends the sparkling beaches and fairytale-like villages Carmel-by-the-Sea is a lively town that boasts numerous attractions and activities from boutique shops and art galleries to wine tasting Don’t miss the opportunity to greet friendly seals by going surfing or diving from tranquil beaches to exciting hiking trails this charming town is a place of endless exploration plenty of activities like \ fishing and sailing await you and are ready to enhance your travel experience powdery beach and share the view with curious deserves its place among the world’s most beautiful towns this charming town is a vibrant tapestry of history and color Its Dutch buildings are adorned in colorful eye-catching paints that have become its signature charm.  A leisurely stroll across the town reveals a delightful mix of inspiring restaurants inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the town’s rich history and lively atmosphere Guatapé is a mesmerizing town that captures the essence of vibrant colors and stunning landscapes each part of Guatapé promises a picture-worthy opportunity marking its place among the most beautiful towns in the world the panoramic landscapes of Guatapé are another charm that couldn’t be missed its beauty coupled well with the friendly atmosphere Located in the misty mountains of Northern Vietnam Sapa is the perfect town for a peaceful getaway This town couldn’t be more breathtaking with its terraced rice fields and dramatic mountain views awaiting to be captured Sapa is a destination for every traveler alike or simply immerse yourself in the cool air as you take in the spectacular scenery Step back in time with a visit to Albarracin a medieval town located in the province of Teruel in Spain This tiny town is best known for its preserved historical architecture—a labyrinth of narrow offering dramatic views of the surrounding countryside Albarracin's charm lies not only in its stunning architecture but also in its rich history with remnants of Roman and Moorish influences scattered throughout the town Thailand’s Ban Rak Thai is one of the most beautiful towns in the world that hosts stunning tea plantations and lush hills Ban Rak Thai is ideal for those seeking to be one with nature by going hiking or boating this hidden gem is filled with distinct architecture and fascinating culture that stand out as another appeal Baños boasts a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Amazon,” this small town is surrounded by countless natural beauties from magical waterfalls and relaxing hot springs to lush forests Among the most beautiful towns in the world Baños stands out as a haven for adventure enthusiasts Whether you're zip-lining through the forest the majestic backdrop of waterfalls and the looming presence of an active volcano make every moment feel extraordinary These ten most beautiful towns in the world offer more than just tranquil escapes—they provide a lifetime of unforgettable experiences Editor's Choice: 10 Best Resorts in the World 2024, Lavish and Awe-Inspiring Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News World's Best Muslim-Friendly Country Destinations Singapore Named World's Cleanest Tourist City The Oldest Temples in the World Still in Use Today The 10 Best Coastal Towns in UK to Live Before Everyone Else Does Top Destinations with Perfect Temperatures Top 10 Countries with the Best Beaches in the World: Stunning Seascape Awaits Soekarno-Hatta Airport Immigration Services Ranked Top 10 in the World Indonesian U-17 National Team to Face Afghanistan in 2025 U-17 Asian Cup Tonight World Bipolar Day March 30: Detecting Bipolar Disorder and Its Types Thanks to its long history, rich culture, and well-established traditions, Germany is home to some of the most interesting places to visit in Europe Dotted across the country are countless small towns that each boast their very own charm and character and each of which offers curious travelers no end of fun things to do and see From picturesque small towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Lindau with their well-preserved medieval architecture and fairy-tale ambiance to the scenic setting of Cochem on the Moselle River together paint a compelling picture of a Germany that thrives on its uniqueness The charming island town of Lindau on Lake Constance (Bodensee) in Bavaria is easy to get to from Munich and its international airport it is connected to the mainland by a bridge and a causeway used by vehicle traffic Lindau’s recorded history goes back as far as the 9th century and it’s known to have been fortified by the Romans at one point The town’s picturesque Harbor Entrance is unique for its lighthouse (Neuer Leuchtturm) and the Bavarian Lion statue (Bayerischer Löwe), which stand as guardians over the town and boat traffic that come and go. In addition to the spectacular views over Lake Constance and the Alps in Austria and Switzerland it is a great place to hop aboard a tour boat or simply sit at a café and watch the world go by this elegant spa offers visitors a ritualized bathing experience that promotes wellness and relaxation A more contemporary take on thermal bathing can be enjoyed at Caracalla Spa and steam baths set amidst beautiful gardens Other quirky things to do in Baden Baden include visiting the Kurhaus an architectural marvel housing the old-school Casino Baden-Baden; and the Festspielhaus Europe's second-largest opera and concert house Quedlinburg’s location, mid-way between Hanover and Leipzig, makes it a great destination for a day trip or overnight getaway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site (one of an impressive 52 in Germany all told) is worth visiting for its large collection of over 2,000 well-preserved half-timbered houses and landmark buildings spanning six centuries The Fachwerkmuseum im Ständerbau museum is a must-visit and delves into the history and construction of these half-timbered houses The centerpiece of this amazing architectural collection is Quedlinburg Abbey this Romanesque masterpiece sits atop Schlossberg Hill It houses the tombs of the first German King which contains medieval art and religious artifacts Other must-visits include Quedlinburg's Market Square (Marktplatz) and its Renaissance Town Hall (Rathaus) Usually referred to simply as “Rothenburg,” Rothenburg ob der Tauber is every inch the traditional German fairy-tale town. Located on the spectacular Romantic Road scenic driving route in the heart of beautiful Bavaria it is a delightful town to explore on foot a yellow half-timbered house at a fork in the road along with the fountain in front and the Siebers Tower and Kobolzeller Tower framing the scene is one of the most photographed spots in Germany The Market Square (Marktplatz) serves as the heart of Rothenburg Photographic highlights include the Town Hall (Rathaus) with its impressive Renaissance façade and tower (be sure to climb the tower for its views); St home to the Holy Blood altarpiece by Tilman Riemenschneider a masterpiece of wood carving; and walking the old town walls Two quirky museums to visit include the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum (Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum) and the Christmas Museum (Weihnachtsmuseum) which celebrates the town's year-round Christmas spirit Known as the "City of Towers and Gates," Ravensburg is an often-overlooked gem that should be included on any Southern Germany travel itinerary The townscape is blessed with 10 historic towers and many able to be visited as you explore the Old Town (Altstadt) area were part of the town's original fortifications and today offer panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside Ravensburg’s role as an important trading and market center is evident in the Marienplatz, the main square, which is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Waaghaus and the Rathaus (Town Hall). The town’s quirkier side can be explored at Museum Ravensburger, a fun attraction dedicated to the history of the iconic board game and puzzle maker Its stunning Moselle Valley setting makes Cochem a must-visit in the Rhineland-Palatinate region. This picture-perfect small town, a regular stop for passing river cruises, is home to the spectacular 12th-century Reichsburg Castle Perched on a commanding hilltop overlooking the river and the town guided castle tours paint a fascinating look into the times of knights and nobility Exploring Cochem's old town center is a must for its half-timbered homes and market square (Marktplatz) Martin's Church and the Baroque town hall (Rathaus) Cochem is a gateway to the Moselle wine region with numerous vineyards and wineries offering tastings and tours Another quirky attraction is the Cochem Chairlift (Cochemer Sesselbahn Talstation) which transports visitors up to the Pinnerkreuz lookout point for panoramic views of the area While much of Friedrichshafen’s town center was destroyed during WWII due to its industrial importance there is a very good reason for tourists to want to include this interesting Baden-Württemberg destination on their list of top places to visit in Germany that the very first Zeppelin took flight… and it’s here that tourists can experience the thrill of flying in a Zeppelin airship for themselves  Zeppelin flights are available from the town’s airport and boast breathtaking aerial views of Lake Constance and the surrounding region Whether before or after a flight, a visit to the Zeppelin Museum is a must. Housed in the former Harbor Railway Station (Hafenbahnhof), this fascinating attraction features the world's largest collection related to airship travel and the history of Zeppelin aviation, including details of the ill-fated Hindenburg disaster of 1937 famous for its Sun Organ (Sonnenorgel); constructed in 1703 this elegantly decorated instrument is still in use for recitals that are open to the public and provide a somewhat quirky musical journey back in time Exploring the town’s picturesque Lower Market Square (Untermarkt) is time well spent the oldest Renaissance building in Germany and home to the interesting Silesian Museum with its displays relating to local history and culture Boppard sits along the picturesque Rhine River in the Rhineland-Palatinate region and is the closest community to the spectacular Rhine Loop. Best seen from the vantage point of the Vierseenblick (Four-Lakes View,) just a 30-minute walk from the town center, this panoramic bend in the Rhine gives the impression you are looking at a series of interconnected lakes rather than a river. The town is also famous for the Boppard Chairlift (Sesselbahn Boppard), which carries visitors up to the Gedeonseck viewpoint for even more views of the Rhine Loop. Allow time to explore Old Town Boppard, too, as it has been designated part of the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Exploring the quirkiest towns in Germany offers a superb opportunity to experience a journey through some of Europe’s most impressive countryside and historic landmarks. From the well-preserved half-timbered houses of Quedlinburg to the fairy-tale streets of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, these charming communities embody the spirit of a bygone era and invite adventurous travelers to venture off the beaten track and explore. All maps, graphics, flags, photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com Armstrong Williams takes on the news of the week and asks the questions you want answered. Don’t miss our weekly town hall. sponsoredDuke Energy School of the Week is Rothenburg Prep Academyby Perry Schaible Ohio (WKRC) - Duke Energy's School of the Week is Cincinnati Public School's Rothenberg Preparatory Academy healthy kids and they are doing it by getting their hands dirty It's a space where students take classes about once a week Teachers are planting the seeds of knowledge by using this real world atmosphere to teach science which is considered a food desert because access to fresh fruits and vegetables is limited They also engage the community with public programs and share the food with local families "They love being in our outdoor classroom space," said principal Amber Simpson "They love the fact that they're outside and they're learning It's amazing that there is something so beautiful in this urban setting and that we created it on the rooftop." The garden is overflowing with opportunities There are two after school programs Rainbow Readers and Junior Horticulture Club This summer they will have a first time internship program for eighth grade students The Rothenberg rooftop garden is run by a non-profit organization and volunteers A 1716 edition of the Gutenberg Bible belongs to a member of the local Winterholler family recently retired oral surgeon from Billings is the owner of this unique collector’s Bible.Dr served an LDS mission in South Germany from 1966-’69 During that time foreign speaking missionaries served more than the typical two-year assignment meaning “red fortress above the Tauber” located in the Franconia region of Bavaria Germany.[caption id="attachment_13464" align="alignright" width="550"] The 1716 edition of the 1697 Gutenburg Bible is translated by Martin Luther The cover is a wood panel bound in pigskin and each page is handmade causing the texture of the pages to be noticeably different Ornate pictures in the Bible were intricate designed woodcuts and pressed into the paper which is typically omitted from present-day printings The German writing is in commentary style in which a section of scripture is followed by the interpretation of the same verses.Dustin McClure photos[/caption]This small town has preserved its historical image of medieval time one can touch the houses on each side of the street in the old residential area There had never been LDS missionaries sent to Rothenburg because it was too small Winterholler and his companion were sent to meet her.The young missionary men were informed of an American woman married to a wealthy industrialist named Hans Teichert they encountered a woman who made it very clear she had no interest in their testimony Just before they got to the gate they heard another woman calling “Come back here.” They introduced themselves and discovered this was the American woman She invited them to her home.“We knew something was afoot when we arrived She and her husband had remodeled a medieval prison for their home We got to know her quite well.”The Catholic priest and Lutheran minister of Rothenburg were not on good terms So when they published a joint article that said “Beware of Mormons” Gloria was upset She knew they were not friendly except in their effort to keep the Mormon religion out of Rothenburg.Gloria vowed to help the young Mormon missionaries “It was an incredible meal,” Winterholler said “She invited nine newly-ordained Catholic priests He was studying linguistics at the Vatican Among the other guests were two agnostic friends and two philosophers.After dinner Gloria asked her guests to come into the study She sat them in a rather intimate grouping and announced Listen to them.”Gloria’s husband was a collector of art The couple invited Winterholler to the upper floor to Mr “I spent a fair amount of time with them (the Teicherts) They were very friendly and we became good friends.”Gloria was not happy when the missionaries’ assignment in Rothenburg was completed “The day I left she brought the Bible to me She gave that Gutenberg Bible to me.”Gloria Teichert’s husband Gloria moved from Germany to Oregon to be near a brother and sister Winterholler reconnected with her at that time and the other members of his family have become friends with this fascinating woman as well.She is now 95 and lives in assisted living in California Her extravagant collection includes a Da Vinci painting a life-sized sculpture of Christ in repose is in the Artistry Museum at BYU.And that is how Dr came to be the owner of a 1716 Gutenberg Bible.“Some people say that it should be under glass in a controlled environment This Bible has survived wars and many other things through time I don’t think I’m going to do anything that would harm it,” Winterholler said of his treasured Bible.BY Teressa Ennis Where time stands still and the Christmas spirit is felt all year round restore your lost energy with some regional or international specialties at one of these top-notch restaurants ©Topinambur Restaurant A cool cozy bar to settle for a relaxing cocktail is the best introduction for a romantic candlelit dinner. When local rustic specialties blend with creative Mediterranean touches, the result is more than impressive. Find Topinambur inside the Prinzhotel for a meal to remember take advantage of the lovely terrace if the weather is nice and make sure to save some room for the divine desserts Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips See privacy policy Maria Menegaki was born in Crete in 1991 and is an MA student of Social and Historical Anthropology at the University of the Aegean She holds a BA in Geography and is constantly looking for ways to combine her academic interests with her passion for travelling and exploring She loves music and cinema and is determined never to grow up See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in September See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in July See & Do The Best Weekend Trips From Heidelberg Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in December See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Autumn See & Do Germany's Most Beautiful Abbeys and Monasteries Design The Most Beautiful Churches in Berlin See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in October See & Do A Guide to River Cruises in Germany: What to Know Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in November See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Summer Art 10 Masterpieces You Can Only See in Munich US: +1 (678) 967 4965 | UK: +44 (0)1630 35000 tripssupport@theculturetrip.com © Copyright 2025 The Culture Trip Ltd Staff photo by Fritz Busch The Cottonwood River inundates much of Rothenburg Campground in Springfield Wednesday Springfield City Manager/EDA Director Matt Skaret said the river crested at 29.18 feet at a gauge just west of town Tuesday The south end of O’Connell Avenue between the city and Springfield Golf Club remains closed to traffic as much of it is under water SPRINGFIELD — The swollen Cottonwood River raced through Springfield in its usual channel and surged into Rothenburg Campground Wednesday Springfield City Manager/EDA Director Matt Skaret said the river crested at 29.18 feet Tuesday afternoon “We’ve been watching the river lately,” Skaret said we plugged storm sewers that empty into the river to reduce back-up We checked our sanitary sewers and found them secure.” Skaret said the dike just east of the community center was reinforced with earth and clay in 2012 O’Connell Avenue was closed from the south edge of town to the golf course due to the rising river Cass Avenue was closed near Rothenburg Campground and Riverside Park Cass Avenue was re-opened to traffic Wednesday “A fishing pier at Salonek’s Pit will need repair,” Skaret said “We’ll have a lot of clean-up work to do street and utility staff that has been through this before.” but no flood water reached the swimming pool or pool area in Riverside Park “We’d rather have a near miss than a direct hit,” Skaret said “We got 10 to 12 inches of snow in the last storm The Cottonwood River watershed is a big one stretching nearly all the way to South Dakota Some points west of us got 20 inches or more of snow in the last storm.” The Cottonwood River at New Ulm continues to climb according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service A flood warning continues for the Cottonwood River at New Ulm until next Monday night Warnings continue for the Minnesota River at Mankato Jordan and Montevideo; the Redwood River near Redwood Falls and the South Fork of the Crow River below Mayer The river forecast is based on forecast runoff from snowmelt and 24-hour precipitation Little if any precipitation is expected until early next week Any additional rainfall may cause river levels to rise higher than predicted Motorists are urged not to drive through flooded areas Stay tuned to a NOAA Weather Radio or your local radio or TV station for the latest flood information visit https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=mpx&gage=nwum5 Fritz Busch can be emailed at fbusch@nujournal.com NEW ULM – Friday May 9 is Provider Appreciation Day and Brown County Human Services encourages parents and the .. TYLER — A group of 18 local students showcased their personal business ventures at the third annual Class of 2025 .. Copyright © 2025 Ogden Newspapers of Minnesota Cloaked in black and brandishing a deadly medieval weapon Hans-Georg Baumgartner strides purposefully into Market Square at dusk a lowly figure in the German town of Rothenburg centuries ago but in Baumgartner's incarnation a tour guide with a rock-star aura and a wit so calculatingly clever he's been called a medieval Jerry Seinfeld Baumgartner's Watchman tour has helped make Rothenburg — Germany's best-preserved walled town and the jewel of the medieval trade route known as the Romantic Road — one of the country's most popular tourist sites the ubiquitous Europe travel impresario savvy in what American tourists will pay to see calls the watchman tour "flat-out the most entertaining hour of medieval wonder anywhere in Germany." While Baumgartner is at the top of the tourist food chain he's by no means Rothenburg's only attraction the town is also known for the heavy — some might say leaden — Schneeball pastry medieval crime museum and a hybrid saxophone-trombone instrument invented by a local innkeeper with a passion for Dixieland Christmas shops sell knickknacks year-round but a seasonal Christmas market offers puppet shows concerts and walks during the holiday season There's often a line to get in to the Kaethe Wolfahrt Christmas shop an ornament and cuckoo clock emporium popular among U.S Though 1.5 million tourists visit each year Rothenburg's cobblestone streets are spotless The town is frozen in the Middle Ages splendor that came from a rich textile trade and prime location along the trade route now known as the Romantic Road which links more than two dozen picturesque German towns and historic sites The town is also known for its Jewish history with Judaica in the city museum; and Judengasse (Jews' Lane) a street billed as Germany's only intact ghetto from the Middle Ages especially for those who climb atop its 20-foot-high covered wall to walk the circumference of the town officially known as Rothenburg ob der Tauber But the real star is the dashing Baumgartner hooked spear with an axlike blade the watchman carried for protection the watchman made rounds while everyone else slept His job was to light lamps and check for fire He sang a song on the hour to remind townsfolk to take precautions against fire above only the gravedigger and executioner "These two liked to work together because they had the same clients," Baumgartner quips Because the watchman was a creature of the night which doesn't hurt Baumgartner's image one bit He will do another tour in German 90 minutes later The Americans crowd around and pose for photos with him The Germans on the next tour are more reserved and stand at a respectful distance Baumgartner seasons his historical presentation with sly puns and a comic's timing never lapsing into the excessive earnestness that can afflict some museum docents and role-playing characters Baumgartner points out evidence of the harshness of medieval life: the protruding attic pulleys residents used to haul up the year's supply of food they kept to guard against famine the windows through which they tossed household waste down onto the street That in turn fostered plague and other illnesses not to mention a pervasive unpleasant odor "It wasn't romantic at all in the summer in the city," Baumgartner tells the Americans many old enough to remember the Lovin' Spoonful hit of the same name GETTING THERE: Nuremberg is the closest airport Frankfurt and Munich airports are convenient to other points along the Romantic Road take exit for Rothenburg o.d.T.) Bus and train service available www.rothenburg.de (click on "English version") or 011-49-9861-404-800 One-hour English-language walking tours through Christmas (tours resume mid-March); meet at Market Square (Marktplatz) at 8 p.m. MEDIEVAL CRIME MUSEUM: www.kriminalmuseum.rothenburg.de GETTING AROUND: Unless you have lodging inside the town be prepared to park your car outside the wall you'll find Rothenburg to be a great walking town You can amble from one end to the other in 15 minutes when the package finally made it to my doorstep the unboxing that would follow was not the experience I expected There are slews of “unboxing” photos and videos on the web for the latest gadgets I fathom it’s because it enables the viewer to relive the moment of anticipation and excitement for an experience they had or one that are still waiting to savor first hand After my trip to Rothenburg, Germany where I ordered a Christmas Pyramid (German Christmas Tradition in Rothenburg) I thought it would be most exciting when it arrived to share the unboxing experience with all of you when the package finally made it to my doorstep after being handled by both Deutsche Post and United State Postal Service apologizing that it was already a couple of months since I received the box and only now was I opening it They responded very promptly letting me know that I could pack up the Christmas Pyramid and send it in for an exchange or refund After all the trouble of opening the Christmas Pyramid I am a little reluctant to pack it all up to send it back No guarantees the next one that they send would be in any better shape I am contemplating that it may actually be less trouble and perhaps more fun (being a crafty sort of person) to attempt to fix it on my own