Architecture in Germany has been greatly influenced by the styles in architecture and art of European countries. These styles were born and developed during ancient period of Charlemagne’s Empire to the modern history after the World War II. The most ancient architectural designs appeared since 800 AD when German architecture was featured by the … [Read more...]
Aachen Cathedral
Aachen Cathedral was included into UNESCO World Heritage List in 1978 and got one of the top sites of the list due its unique history enriched by legends and myths and luxurious treasures kept in the cathedral. Construction of this palatine chapel, with its octagonal basilica and cupola, began c. 790–800 under the Emperor Charlemagne. Originally … [Read more...]
The Tradition of Sylvester in Germany
In Germany, New Year’s Eve is not simply the closing of a calendar. It is Sylvester, a night filled with traditions that reflect centuries of history, layers of folklore, and a cultural instinct for marking transitions with intentional ritual. Germans view Sylvester not only as a time for celebration, but also as a symbolic threshold between old … [Read more...]
German Maiwein
May Wine is a traditional May Day beverage Maiwein (May Wine) is a German drink, dedicated to springtime and flavored with fresh Waldmeister (sweet woodruff). Maiwein, a white wine, imported from Germany, can be found in stores. Waldmeister is a fragrant herb, a small plant with white blossoms. In Germany it grows in the forests. However, the … [Read more...]
Easter Eggs: Traditions and Recipes
Easter Eggs Traditions from Germany It is really impossible to imagine Easter without such an attribute as colored eggs. This is a very old tradition dating back to the 16th century to exchange colored eggs as Easter presents. Later, it became a custom for young people who were in love with each other, to give the decorated eggs to their … [Read more...]
German Easter traditions
Germany is home to some of the most charming and meaningful Easter traditions in Europe. With roots that stretch deep into both Christian beliefs and pre-Christian customs, German Easter traditions blend spirituality, folklore, and springtime celebration in ways that are both time-honored and joyful. Whether you're witnessing an Osterfeuer (Easter … [Read more...]
German Easter Bunny Recipes
Some last-minute recipes of Easter bunny-shaped cakes and cookies Easter is not all about hard-boiled eggs. You cannot make it with egg salads only! Let's honor Easter rabbit - the one who hides Easter eggs - by putting him on the festive table. Easter Bunny Ingredients: 1 kg flour 1 tsp salt 160 g soft butter 600 ml room-warm milk 1 tbsp … [Read more...]
Christ Child – Christkind
In some parts of Germany, mainly the south east of the country, children write to the Christkind/Christkindl asking for presents. The letters to the Christkind are decorated with sugar glued to the envelope to make them sparkly and attractive to look at. Children leave the letters on the windowsill at the beginning of or during Advent. "Das … [Read more...]
German Christmas Markets – Christmas Shopping in Germany
There is nothing so awe-inspiring in the pre-Christmas time as visiting Christkindlmarkt, the German Christmas market. Every town has its own little "Christkindlmarkt", which is a market-fest, where people gather to enjoy the Christmas time. These Christmas markets offer baked goods, sweets and toys and feature local and regional specialties. … [Read more...]
Advent in Germany – Four Weeks Left till Christmas!
In Germany the time from December 1st to December 24th is called "Adventszeit", which means the time before Christmas Eve. Parents give their children Advent calendars that count down the days. Every day in December they can open one of the doors and receive either a small chocolate in the shape of a star, a tree, or a little toy. These calendars … [Read more...]