10 | Central Europe Destination Guide
THE ROMANTIC ROAD
The Romantic Road in southern Germany,
established in the 1950s to boost tourism and
revive the post-war economy, is renowned
for its fairytale castles, medieval towns and
picturesque countryside.
A notable highlight is Rothenburg ob der
Tauber, one of Germany's last remaining walled
medieval towns. Once a bustling merchant city
under the Holy Roman Empire, Rothenburg's
decline during the Thirty Years' War and the
plague preserved its medieval charm, which
was rediscovered by German Romantics in 1802.
Discover the enchanting Plönlein square, with
its narrow street lined with half-timbered
houses. Stroll along the well-preserved city
walls for stunning views of the town and the
surrounding countryside, as you imagine the
rich history that these walls have witnessed.
Admire the High Altar of St. Jakob's Church
and the Gothic-Renaissance Town Hall.
Rothenburg is also known for its Christmas
shops, particularly Käthe Wohlfahrt's Christmas
Village, where you can step into a magical
Christmas wonderland all year round.
ROTHENBURG , G ER M A N Y
BAVA R I A N BEER
BAVARIAN BEER CULTURE
Bavarian beer culture is woven with centuries
of tradition, craftsmanship and community
spirit. Bavaria, often considered the heartland
of German beer, is home to almost half of the
country's breweries. Central to this culture is
the Reinheitsgebot, or Beer Purity Law, enacted
in 1516, which mandates that beer can only be
made from water, barley and hops. Although
these regulations have since been relaxed,
purists remain and this tradition has been
recognised as an intangible cultural heritage,
highlighting its significance to Bavarian identity.
Sample traditional wheat beers, crafted with
more wheat than barley, as well as refreshing
pilsners from Kneitinger and rich dark beers
from Weltenburger. For an authentic brauhaus
experience, indulge in homemade Bavarian
sausages and sauerkraut, savour a freshly
baked breze and enjoy a tasting of various
local mustards.
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