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February 28 in German History
February 28, 1552 Birth of Joost Bürgi (1552-1632) in Lichtensteig, Switzerland. A watchmaker, astronomer and mathematician, Bürgi invented logarithms, possibly as early as 1588, and had compiled his logarithmic tables by 1603. (The Scottish mathematician, John Napier, who is often credited with the invention in British histories, invented logarithms independently and published his tables in […]
St. Martin’s Day in Germany: The Luminous Tradition of Martinstag
As dusk falls across Germany on the evening of November 11th, a quiet transformation takes place. Streets and village squares fill with the glow of lanterns carried by children, their flickering lights moving like rivers of warmth against the darkening autumn sky. Voices rise in song – old melodies passed from generation to generation – […]
German Beer Steins
The origins of beer steins date back to the 14th century. As a result of the bubonic plague and several invasions of flies throughout Europe, Germany established several laws in the early 16th century requiring that all food and beverage containers be covered to protect their contents. By combining a lid, hinge, and thumblift, these […]
Henry the Lion: Power and Politics in Medieval Germany
In the turbulent world of 12th-century Germany, one name stands out for its audacity, ambition, and near-royal power: Henry the Lion. Duke of Saxony and Bavaria, founder of Lübeck and Munich, patron of churches, and rival to emperors, Henry carved out a realm that rivaled the crown itself. His story captures the essence of medieval […]
German Values and Beliefs: What Shapes Daily Life
What truly defines German culture? Beyond stereotypes about punctuality, rules, and efficiency lies a deeper system of values that shapes everyday life in Germany. These values influence how Germans work, communicate, build relationships, and organize society. Understanding German values and beliefs is essential for anyone visiting, living, or working in Germany. What may seem strict […]
Sauerkraut Cheese Spätzle
A Bavarian Classic with a Tangy Twist Few dishes capture the heart of German comfort food quite like Sauerkraut Cheese Spätzle. This rich, satisfying dish blends two culinary icons: Germany’s beloved hand-cut egg noodles (Spätzle) and the sharp, probiotic goodness of fermented cabbage (sauerkraut). Warm, cheesy, and full of bold flavor, it’s perfect for chilly […]
How German Names Work: Surnames, Meanings & Traditions
German names carry deep cultural and historical significance, shaping identity and tradition. Many surnames reflect professions, geographic origins, or family lineage, while first names follow distinct naming laws. If you’ve ever wondered why names like Schmidt, Müller, and Bauer are so common in Germany, or why some names are banned, you’re about to dive into […]
20 Things to Do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber: A Step Back in Time
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a living postcard of medieval Germany, where time seems to have stood still in its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. This well-preserved walled town is a highlight of the Romantic Road and draws visitors with its fairy-tale charm. Here are 20 things that you should not miss when you visit […]
August 10 in German History
August 10, 1794 Birth of Leopold Zunz in Detmold, Germany. Zunz was a historian of Jewish literature and succeeded in bringing scientific rigor to the field. In his work Zur Geschichte und Literatur he integrated Jewish literature with European literature and politics. August 10, 1827 Birth of Adalbert Falk in Metschkau, Prussia. He was in […]
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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...]
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 - … [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...]
October 2 in German History
October 2, 1616 Birth of Andreas Gryphius in Glogau, Germany (now Poland). Gryphius was one of the greatest of the German Baroque writers. Gryphius is noted for his poetry and his dramas. He is the … [Read More...]
Nazi Gold
To finance such a war as World War II, Germany had to be an enormously rich country, ... but it wasn't. The level of the Reichsbank's gold reserves was extremely low by the beginning of the war. … [Read More...]
Bavarian Strawberry Cream
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries 3/4 cup sugar 1 tbsp. gelatin (unflavored) 1/2 cup cold water 2 tbsp. lemon juice 1 cup cream fresh fruit for decoration (peach, cherry, apple, orange, … [Read More...]
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)
Ingredients: *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* 1 kg potatoes one large leek 2 carrots 1/4 of a celery root one bunch of your favorite greens (dill, parsley) 6–7 cups of chicken broth 4–5 … [Read More...]
German Blutwurst Recipe: A Traditional Delight
German Blutwurst, or blood sausage, is a unique and traditional delicacy that has been a staple in German cuisine for centuries. With its rich flavors and distinct texture, Blutwurst is a testament to … [Read More...]
The Thousand-year Rose of Hildesheim
The Thousand-year Rose (Tausendjähriger Rosenstock) is also known as the Rose of Hildesheim. It grows on a wall of the Hildesheim Cathedral, a Catholic cathedral in Hildesheim, Germany, that is … [Read More...]
Katharina Paulus: The German Inventor Who Revolutionized Early Aviation
In the annals of aviation history, few names are as pioneering as Katharina Paulus, a German inventor whose ingenuity and courage reshaped the early world of flight. Her remarkable contribution to the … [Read More...]