Tuesday's Visit to the Gallows

After a hearty breakfast on Tuesday morning, we set off for a day of visits to several sites of historical interest and local medieval towns.  The gallows at Beerfelden, the triangular structure amid the trees in the centre of the photo was built in 1597, and was used for public hangings until 1804.   The structure allowed for several people to be hanged at one time, and the bodies were left to rot as a reminder for those left behind  to lead good and honest lives. The records for the number of hangings here were lost in the great fire of Beerfelden in 1810. The hill top site felt eerie.   It was such a beautiful place, and one thought of the last visions and feelings of the condemned.  They only rain we had during our four day holiday fell at this place, tears for the departed maybe.  I cannot write in full about all the places we visited, but have chosen the most interesting photos to give you an idea of how interesting this area of Hessen is.

The viaduct at Himbaechel, which takes the railwayline over the valley.

For afternoon coffee, tea and "Queen Victoria Cake" we visited Eberbach, near the former home of Victoria Marie Louise, the daughter of the Duke of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld.  She married at 17 years of age, the much older Prince Emich of Leiningen, and on his death later  married Prince Charles of Hannover, a son of the English King George III.  

Victoria and her new husband the Duke of Kent, moved to England where Princess Victoria, later Queen Victoria was born in 1819.   The town with its royal connections makes various cakes in memory of Queen Victoria's birth and connection with the town.   Someone pointed out to our guide that my name is Victoria, so he graciously kissed by hand, and I gave a regal wave to the crowds!   All good fun and the big chunk of cake was delicious.

The fairy-tale town hall in Michelstadt.

Most of these small towns escaped serious damage in the last war, and so many lovely half-timbered buildings remain to show the history of the town.  I could show so many photos, but this little town hall struck me as the most interesting.  The historic town centre is a pedestrian walkway, and it was so pleasant to wander, sit and absorb the atmosphere of the place.  Sometimes I felt lost for words, the places were so very beautiful and well preserved.