There are very few places that look so much as though they've been lifted wholesale from a fairytale, and when the Reiterlesmarkt is taking place on the Marktplatz of this beautiful Medieval walled city, it's probably the closest you'll ever get to stepping right into one yourself. The peak-roofed town hall at the top of the square even looks uncannily like one of the iced gingerbread houses you'll find on sale alongside the gluhwein, bratwurst, lebkuchen and other treats.

As well as the traditional gifts, delicacies and decorations on sale at the market, there are also brass bands, carol singers, puppet shows, guided torchlight tours and a world famous Christmas shop, Kathe Wohlfahrt. The organ concerts in St. Jacob's church are very much worth hearing, too.

The 15th century market has its very own tale to tell and was already a tradition in Teutonic times: It gets its name from the pre-Christian legend of the rider who came to earth to collect the souls of the dead – a terrifying figure who has evolved over the years to become almost entirely Santa Claus-like.

Written by  larapiegeler.

Add comment

Comments, reviews and questions

There are no posts. Why not be the first to have your say?

Add a comment, review or question

Make a comment Ask a question Write a review

Review title

Your comment

Your rating

Choose rating... Don't go Go Must go

Your name

Your email address