Germany is one of Europe’s most fascinating countries - a place where medieval castles stand beside … (More)
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The Black Death and Its Impact on Germany
In the mid-14th century, death swept across Europe with horrifying speed. Streets emptied, towns fell silent, and entire communities vanished. This was the Black Death, the deadliest pandemic in European history—and Germany, then a patchwork of feudal territories within the Holy Roman Empire, was hit hard. The plague didn’t just decimate the population. It triggered […]
The Rise of Monastic Winemaking in Germany: German Medieval Wine Culture
Germany, renowned for its rich winemaking traditions, has a fascinating history deeply intertwined with the monastic communities that flourished during the Middle Ages. This period witnessed the rise of monastic winemaking, contributing to the development of German medieval wine culture. In this article, we delve into the captivating story of how monastic orders played a […]
Bratwurst Sauerkraut Casserole with Pretzels
If you’re looking for a dish that tastes like Oktoberfest in a casserole dish, this is it. The German Bratwurst Sauerkraut Casserole with Pretzels combines three of Germany’s most iconic flavors – juicy sausage, tangy fermented cabbage, and warm, soft pretzel chunks – into one warm, satisfying bake. This is rustic German comfort food with […]
Hidden Messages in German Fairytales
Not Just Bedtime Stories For many, German fairytales bring to mind magical forests, talking animals, and wicked witches. But beneath the surface of these enchanting tales lies a world far more complex. The stories collected by the Brothers Grimm and other folklorists are not just whimsical entertainment – they’re coded messages, steeped in cultural values, […]
Franz Xaver Winterhalter – German Painter Who Beautified the Royalty
Franz Xaver Winterhalter (20 April 1805 – 8 July 1873) was a German artist best known for his airy, idealized portraits of European royalty that were influenced by the Rococo and Neoclassical painting. Born in a small village in Germany’s Black Forest, Franz Xaver Winterhalter left his home to study painting at the academy in Munich. […]
November 28 in German History
November 28, 1794 Death of Friedrich von Steuben in Remsen, New York (born in Magdeburg, Germany). Steuben was a Prussian officer who was induced by Benjamin Franklin to come to America on the side of the rebelling colonies. Arriving in 1777 he was placed in charge of the troops at Valley Forge. He retrained the […]
Moosbeereherbstblätter Bowle
Ingredients: – 4 cups apple juice (the lighter, the better) – 2 cups cranberry juice – 2 cups white grape juice – 1 bottle champagne (or for non-alcoholic use ginger ale) – 1 cup sliced ripe peaches (fresh, not canned!) – 1 cup vodka – 1 lemon (thinly sliced) – 1 orange (thinly sliced) – […]
August 22 in German History
August 22, 1818 Birth of Rudolf von Jehring in Aurich, Germany. Jehring was a legal scholar specializing in Roman law. He developed the notion that the purpose of law is the protection of the individual in a balance with social interests. In the case of conflict though he gave priority to the interests of society. […]
What Is Mettwurst? Raw-Cured German Sausage Guide
Germany has no shortage of raw meat delicacies, and Mettwurst is one of its finest – a cured, sometimes smoked, raw pork sausage eaten sliced or spread. Its intense flavor, deep color, and smooth or chunky texture make it a versatile snack, spread, or sandwich filling, depending on the region and variety. Unlike Mett (fresh […]
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Hackbraten – Meatloaf
Hackbraten is a great dish for dinner parties – it’s a nice-looking meat dish yet comparably cheap because it’s made with minced meat. What’s more, you can prepare it in advance, store it in the … [Read More...]
All Facts About Germany: A Comprehensive Guide to the Country
Germany, officially known as the Federal Republic of Germany, is a country located in the heart of Europe. Known for its rich history, cultural heritage, technological advancements, and stunning … [Read More...]
Small Talk in Germany
Germans are said to be rather serious, dour, and even humorless. While this is not entirely true, German people do indeed need some time to warm up and keep a polite distance when dealing with … [Read More...]
German Cars
The cars are used so extensively nowadays, that they tend to turn into a separate cultural subcategory, especially where the German culture is concerned. The exteriors always define the first … [Read More...]
January 23 in German History
January 23, 1002 Death of Otto III, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire in Viterbo, Italy (born in Germany in 980). As a child, Otto was crowned King of the Germans in Aachen in 983 following the … [Read More...]
How to Play Watten: Bluffing Card Game
Watten is not just a card game - it is a lively, strategic, and sometimes mischievous social event. Deeply rooted in the cultures of Bavaria, South Tyrol, and parts of Austria, Watten is a game where … [Read More...]
8 Facts About the Umlaut
The German alphabet consists of 26 characters plus 3 umlauts: ä, ö and ü. The two dots above the letters do not indicate an accentuation or emphasis of the syllable (as for instance accent-bearing … [Read More...]
Vatertag – Father’s Day in Germany
Father's day in Germany is so much more than gifting a tie. This public holiday is a day off work for everybody, and a chance for men to act like boys. Known as Vatertag (also Männertag), it involves … [Read More...]
Johann Sebastian Bach
Johann Sebastian Bach (March 21, 1685 - July 28, 1750) was the master of Baroque composition who in his later years held the post of music director in Leipzig, Germany. Bach's abilities as an organist … [Read More...]
German Wedding Traditions: Old Customs That Still Exist Today
Germany has a rich history of wedding traditions, many of which date back centuries. While modern German weddings incorporate contemporary elements, several old customs are still practiced today. … [Read More...]