The German language is more than just a way to say "Guten Tag." It’s a living archive of Europe’s … (More)
Featured Stories
Karl Friedrich Hieronymus Freiherr von Münchhausen, the Baron of Lies
Karl Friedrich Hieronymus Freiherr von Münchhausen, also known as “the baron of lies” (born May 11, 1720, Bodenwerder, Hanover – died February 22, 1797, Bodenwerder), initially served as a page to Prince Anton Ulrich von Braunschweig, and later as a cornet, lieutenant and cavalry captain with a Russian regiment in two Turkish wars. In 1760 […]
Krautsalat – Traditional German Recipe
Simple, crunchy, and delicious – Krautsalat, or German coleslaw, is a time-honored side dish that plays a starring role in German cuisine. Unlike American-style coleslaw, which often uses mayonnaise, Krautsalat is vinegar-based, with a lighter and tangier flavor. It’s a staple at beer gardens, BBQs, and Sunday family meals. This classic salad is a perfect […]
Swabian Pancakes
Swabian Pancakes, also known as “Schwäbische Pfannkuchen,” are a delightful dish hailing from the Swabian region of Southern Germany. This versatile and delicious recipe is perfect for both savory and sweet variations, making it a beloved staple in German households. Ingredients: 200g all-purpose flour 200ml milk 4 large eggs A pinch of salt 2 tbsp […]
Why German Bureaucracy Is So Complicated (And Weirdly Comforting)
Few things strike fear into the heart of a newcomer to Germany like the words Termin beim Amt – appointment at the office. Whether you’re registering your address, applying for a visa, or simply changing your bank details, German bureaucracy has a form, a process, and usually a queue. It’s infamous for being slow, strict, […]
Military Justice in Germany
Members of the German armed forces are subject to the civil criminal code and are tried for common criminal offenses in the civil court system. There are no military correction facilities; incarcerated military offenders serve their sentences in ordinary civilian prisons. Soldiers enjoy the same civil rights and liberties possessed by other citizens. They are […]
German Economy
The Germans proudly label their economy a “soziale Marktwirtschaft ,” or “social market economy,” to show that the system as it has developed after World War II has both a material and a social–or human–dimension. They stress the importance of the term “market” because after the Nazi experience they wanted an economy free of state […]
Healthcare in Germany
The beginnings of the German health care system can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when craftsmen were members of guilds. The guilds provided an early form of health insurance based on the principle of solidarity: All guild members paid into a fund which was then used to help individual members if they had […]
November 4 in German History
November 4, 1716 Birth of Wilhelm Freiherr von Knyphausen in Luxembourg. In 1776 as a general with over 40 years of service, Knyphausen was appointed second in command to General Leopold von Heister commanding the Hessian troops fighting with the British against the colonial rebels in America. In 1777 Knyphausen assumed the command. He returned […]
Valentine’s Day in Germany: Traditions and Celebrations
Valentine’s Day, known as “Valentinstag” in Germany, is a day marked by love, romance, and sweet gestures. While it may not be as extravagantly celebrated as in some countries, the day holds a special place in the hearts of many Germans. This article delves into the various ways Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Germany, offering […]
Read More
March 28 in German History
March 28, 1727 Birth of Maximilian III Joseph in Munich, Germany. Maximilian was the son of the Holy Roman emperor, Karl VII. He was the elector (Holy Roman Empire) of Bavaria. He gained his … [Read More...]
Wedding Traditions in Germany
In Germany parents start thinking about the daughter's wedding quite far in advance. When a baby girl is born, the parents, and later on the little girl herself, will save pennies used to buy the … [Read More...]
Karl Drais, the Bicycle and Typewriter Inventor
Karl Freiherr von Drais (born on 29 April 1785 in Karlsruhe – died on 10 December 1851 in Karlsruhe as well) was a German forest official and significant inventor in the Biedermeier period. Drais was … [Read More...]
Krampus – the Dark Side of St. Nicholas
Krampus, whose name is derived from the German word Krampen, meaning pickaxe, is said to be the son of Hel in Norse mythology. Originally, Krampus was a purely pagan creation, said to be the son of … [Read More...]
October 12 in German History
October 12, 1518 Having been called to the offices of Cardinal Thomas Cajetan, Martin Luther refuses to retreat from the positions taken in his 95 thesis on indulgences. The theses had been posted … [Read More...]
June 13 in German History
June 13, 1539 Birth of Jost Amman in Zürich, Switzerland. Amman was a leading painter and Printmaker of his age. June 13, 1809 Birth of Heinrich Hoffmann in Frankfurt am Main. Hoffmann is … [Read More...]
Markklößchensuppe – Bone Marrow Dumpling Soup
Typical German beef soup with bone marrow dumplings, vegetables, noodles and egg custard, so comforting and delicious! Ingredients: 2 large bread rolls 2 1⁄2 cups bread crumbs 1⁄2 cup finely … [Read More...]
October 29 in German History
October 29, 1268 Death of Konradin (Konrad der jüngere) in Naples, Italy (born in Wolfstein, Germany). The Swabian, Konradin, who held the title "king of the Romans" was the last of the … [Read More...]
Military Justice in Germany
Members of the German armed forces are subject to the civil criminal code and are tried for common criminal offenses in the civil court system. There are no military correction facilities; … [Read More...]
How to Drive in Germany
It's true: there are no speed limits on many sections of German autobahns. But there are plenty of other regulations you should be aware of. While most traffic rules are the same in Germany as they … [Read More...]