In the heart of Europe lies Germany, a country renowned for its rich history, robust economy, and … (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
August 15 in German History
August 15, 1666 Death of Adam Schall von Bell in Peking, China (born in Cologne, Germany). Bell was a Jesuit missionary who traveled to China and became an advisor to the Chinese emperor. August 15, 1688 Birth of Friedrich Wilhelm I (1688-1740), the King in Prussia and Elector of Brandenburg, in Berlin, Germany. His policies […]
Things to Consider Before Buying Property in Germany
For most people, buying property in Germany is not only a solid investment but also a place where they and their family spend the rest of their lives. Unless they are required to move, most people in Germany will not abandon the house they bought or even built themselves. So when they decide on buying […]
December 4 in German History
December 4, 1875 Birth of Rainer Maria Rilke in Prague, Austria-Hungary (now in the Czech Republic). Rilke is the most known and respected of the German-language poets of the 20th century. His life was a series of wanderings and experiments with new poetic structures. Rilke was widely recognized as one of the most lyrically intense […]
Schäufele – Pork Shoulder Baden Style
Schäufele (also “Schäuferle”, “Schüfeli”, “Schäuferla” or “Schäufelchen”) is a traditional dish from the south of Germany. It is made from the pig’s shoulder meat, which gives the dish its name, “Schäufele”. The meat is cured and smoked before it is simmered in a broth of water, red wine, onions, bay laurel, cloves and other spices. […]
The Unique Illnesses You can Only Come Down With in German
Known for its precision and clarity of expression, German seems perfect for describing some of the conditions other nations may also be experiencing but couldn’t quite put a finger on it enough to give it a specific name. 1. Fernweh “Wanderlust”. Fernweh is the opposite of homesickness. It is the longing for travel or the […]
The Day of Euro – the European Currency
January 1, 1999, the New Year’s day, coincided with the day when eleven European nations officially launched the euro as their shared currency. The name of the new European currency was decided upon at the summit of the European Ministers of Finance, December 15 and 16, 1995 in Madrid. Information about the euro had been […]
August 19 in German History
August 19, 1753 Death of the architect Balthasar Neumann in Würzburg. Neumann was clearly the master of Baroque architecture. He was born in Eger, Bohemia (then Austria, now in the Czech Republic) in 1687. He moved to Würzburg in 1711 and gained the patronage of the prince-bishop (Holy Roman Empire) of Würzburg. He eventually rose […]
German Christmas Recipes
It is that time of the year again! The nature is deep in winter, and December days are passing by inevitably, getting us nearer to Christmas. This holiday is the best time for cooking something special, something delicious and absolutely festive. The traditional German holiday meal consists of duck, goose, rabbit or a roast, accompanied […]
November 15 in German History
November 15, 1136 Death of St. Leopold III (ca. 1073 – 1136) Leopold was of the noble family of the Babenberger. He was born in Melk, Austria. He was the duke of Austria from 1095 until his death. He founded three monasteries. In the investiture controversies he took the side of the popes. He was […]
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The Ultimate Guide to Spritzers: Refreshing, Effervescent, and Versatile
Spritzers have become a staple in the world of refreshing, effervescent drinks. Offering a delightful balance between flavor and lightness, they are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers … [Read More...]
How to Make German Quark
Quark is a traditional, creamy, unripened cheese tracing its origin to German-speaking and eastern European countries. Quark is said to be a cross between yogurt and cottage cheese. This fresh, … [Read More...]
Obatzda – German Cheese Dip
A classic biergarten food, Obatzda, also spelled obatzter and obazda, combines a few simple ingredients to create a brightly colored cheese spread with surprisingly complex flavor. Typical … [Read More...]
July 31 in German History
July 31, 1527 Birth of Maximilian II in Vienna, Austria. Maximilian became Holy Roman Emperor in 1546. He tried to instill tolerance between Catholics and the new Protestants. July 31, … [Read More...]
German Vocabulary: Weather
In Germany, like in most countries, talking about the weather is always a good topic when there is nothing else to talk about or if you want to break the ice with people you have just met. Here is a … [Read More...]
Pretzels
A pretzel is a type of baked bread product made from dough most commonly shaped into a twisted knot. The traditional pretzel shape is a distinctive non-symmetrical form, with the ends of a long strip … [Read More...]
Almond Waffles with Raspberry Cream (Mandelwaffeln mit Himbeercreme)
Ingredients: 1 package vanilla sugar 50g fresh fresh raspberries 5 tablespoons raspberry jam 1-2 tablespoons raspberry syrup 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar 2/3 lb. (300g) Quark 3/4 cup … [Read More...]
Gurkensalat (German Cucumber Salad)
Homemade cucumber salad is a refreshing companion to any main dish, be it meat or fish, which is especially popular in summer. This simple German classic can be prepared with different dressings. … [Read More...]
Real Germans’ habits
What are Real Germans like? Set all stereotypes aside and read about Real Germans' habits, likes and dislikes. By guest author WEISSDORN Real Germans want everything at least 99.999999%. That is to … [Read More...]
March 8 in German History
March 8, 1714 Birth of Carl Phillip Imanuel Bach in Weimar, Germany. He was the son of Johann Sebastian and Maria Bach. His first position was that of harpsichordist to Friedrich II of Prussia. In … [Read More...]