The German education system is renowned globally for its rigorous approach and comprehensive … (More)
German Culture
Germany, a country in the heart of Europe, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, shaped by centuries of history, diverse influences, and continuous innovation. This website covers almost all aspects of German culture, offering a glimpse into what makes it both unique and universally appealing.
German culture has been shaped by major historical events, including the Holy Roman Empire, the Reformation, the Enlightenment, industrialization, two World Wars, and reunification after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Each era left an indelible mark on German society, influencing its traditions, values, and global perception.
German, Germany’s official language, is known for its precision and depth. The country has a rich literary tradition, with figures like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Friedrich Schiller, and more contemporary authors like Günter Grass and Herta Müller. The Brothers Grimm’s fairy tales have captivated children worldwide, while their work in linguistics has had a lasting impact on the study of Germanic languages.
Germany’s contribution to the arts is monumental. In classical music, composers like Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Richard Wagner have left a legacy that defines the genre. In visual arts, the German Renaissance, and later movements like Expressionism and Bauhaus, have influenced art globally.
From the Romanesque and Gothic churches to modernist Bauhaus buildings, German architecture displays a range of styles. The Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria is a prime example of 19th-century Romanticism, while the Berlin skyline showcases cutting-edge contemporary architecture.
German culture is rich in traditions and customs, many of which are celebrated through various festivals and events.
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest in Munich is world-famous, drawing visitors from across the globe to celebrate Bavarian culture, beer, and food in a festive atmosphere. Traditional clothing like Lederhosen and Dirndl are often worn, showcasing regional folk costumes.
Christmas Markets
Germany’s Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) are magical, with their origins dating back to the Middle Ages. These markets, found in nearly every town, are filled with festive decorations, traditional crafts, and culinary delights like Glühwein and Lebkuchen.
The Carnival season, particularly strong in the Rhineland region, features parades, costumes, and balls. It’s a time when traditional roles are reversed, and revelers enjoy a sense of freedom and humor.
Cuisine
German cuisine is as diverse as its regions, known for its hearty and robust flavors. Dishes like Bratwurst, Sauerkraut, and Pretzels are globally recognized. Each region has its specialties, like the seafood dishes of the North, the apple wine of Hessen, or the Spätzle of the South.
Germany is famous for its beer, with a brewing tradition rooted in the Reinheitsgebot (Beer Purity Law) of 1516. The country boasts a variety of beer styles, including Pilsner, Weizenbier, and Kölsch. Additionally, Germany is renowned for its Riesling wines, produced in picturesque vineyards along rivers like the Rhine and Mosel.
This comprehensive website of German culture highlights its depth and diversity, offering a window into a nation that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a culinary explorer, Germany’s rich cultural tapestry has something to intrigue and inspire everyone.
Featured Story
Featured Stories
March 26 in German History
March 26, 809 Death of St. Liudger (742-809) St. Liudger was born near Utrecht (Modern Holland) in about 742. He was a missionary to the Friesians and Saxons. His vocation was occasioned by the Martyrdom of St. Boniface whose work he wished to continue. He studied under Alquin and retained a lifelong association with him. […]
July 11 in German History
July 11, 1657 Birth of Friedrich I in Königsberg, Germany (now in Russia). Friedrich was the first king of Prussia and the Elector of Brandenburg. The University of Halle was founded during his reign, as was the Academy of Sciences. July 11, 1662 Birth of Maximilian II Emanuel in Munich. Maximilian was of the Wittelsbach […]
October 28 in German History
October 28, 1017 Birth of the Holy Roman Emperor, Heinrich III, called the Black or the Pious, who was a member of the Salian Dynasty of Holy Roman Emperors. He was the eldest son of Conrad II of Germany and Gisela of Swabia. His father made him duke of Bavaria (as Heinrich VI) in 1026, after […]
August 5 in German History
August 5, 1889 Death of Fanny Lewald in Dresden, Germany. Lewald was a writer of popular novels. Among her novels are Die Familie Darner (1888), Geschlecht zu Geschlecht (8 vols. 1863-1865), and Diogena (1847). August 5, 1895 Death of Friedrich Engels in London (born in Barmen, Germany). Engels was the son of a wealthy industrialist […]
April 20 in German History
April 20, 1494 Birth of Johann Agricola (1494-1566) (original name: Johann Schneider) in Eisleben, Germany (He was a friend and supporter of Martin Luther). Agricola became a strong proponent of the concept that Christian grace replaces the Ten Commandments, which would no longer, then, have force. These views led to a cooling of relations with […]
Marriage and Family in Germany
Like most other advanced countries in the postwar era, Germany recorded fewer marriages, more divorces, and smaller families. In 1960 there were 690,000 marriages, compared with 516,000 in 1990. The total for 1993 amounted to only 442,000, but most of this decline was caused by a drop of than more 50 percent in the number […]
July 4 in German History
July 4, 966 Death of Pope Benedict V in Hamburg, Germany. Benedict had been elected Pope in defiance to the wishes of the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, Otto I. After serving for several months he was deposed through the intervention of Otto’s army. Otto then placed him in clerical service in Hamburg where […]
Mahlzeit!- German Food
Thinking of German food and cuisine as of a mix of Bier+Wurst+Kraut+Knoedel would be an unforgivable simplification of this very fine cultural tradition. What would you say to Forellenmousse, Preiselbeertorte, Bayerischer Wurstsalat, or even Tiramisu! Germans appreciate healthy, well-prepared foods served with care. Everyone who loves to have a good substantial meal will be impressed […]
Flädlesuppe – German Pancake Soup
Flädlesuppe, or German pancake soup, is basically a bit like chicken noodle soup except with strips of pancake in the broth. This southern German favorite is perfect as a first course for lunch on cold days. Serve this soup soon after assembling, because the pancakes soak up the broth and, eventually, will fall apart. Ingredients: […]
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April 21 in German History
April 21, 1488 Birth of Ulrich von Hutten near Fulda. Von Hutten was a staunch supporter of Martin Luther both with his pen as a satirist and with his sword as a knight. In 1522 when German knights … [Read More...]
The History of Black Forest Cake: A Delightful Journey Through Time
The Black Forest cake, with its layers of chocolate sponge cake, luscious cherries, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings, has become a beloved dessert enjoyed by millions worldwide. This iconic … [Read More...]
Early History of Germany
The Germanic tribes, which probably originated from a mixture of peoples along the Baltic Sea coast, inhabited the northern part of the European continent by about 500 B.C. By 100 B.C., they had … [Read More...]
Tasty Summer Treat – Cherry Dessert
German cuisine is famous for its substantial and somewhat "heavy" dishes - Bratwurst, Sauerbraten, Schnitzel, etc. However there is a special offer for hot summer days: light and delicious German … [Read More...]
March 9 in German History
March 9, 1009 Death of St. Bruno von Querfurt (970 – 1009) Bruno was educated at the cathedral school in Magdeburg. He later entered a monastery and took his vows in 999. He was sent as a … [Read More...]
Pork Medallions With Mushrooms (Schweinemedaillons mit Pfifferlingen)
Ingredients: 1 pork tenderloin filet, cut into 8 equal slices 3 tbsp butter 1 lb whole mushrooms (chanterelles or champignons), quartered 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion 1 to 2 tablespoons … [Read More...]
Ernst Lubitsch: a German Who Conquered Hollywood
A sky-rocket way from a stage performer to a sophisticated comedy director. Ernst Lubitsch (January 28, 1892 – November 30, 1947) was "a man of pure cinema", as Alfred Hitchcock said. He was an … [Read More...]
Saxony – a Crossroads of European History, Culture and Art
The free State of Saxony has unique georaphical position which greatly influenced and still influences on its rich possessions. Saxony meets West, East, North and South of Germany. For the centuries … [Read More...]
Vocational Education and Training in Germany
The German education system has been praised for its ability to provide quality general education combined with excellent specific training for a profession or a skilled occupation. In 1992 about 65 … [Read More...]
September 29 in German History
September 29, 1686 Birth of Cosmas Damian Asam in Benediktbeuren, Germany. He and his brother, Egid Quirin were leading masters of the baroque style of illusionist decoration in the late baroque … [Read More...]