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The
climatic health resort of Trippstadt at the centre of the Palatinate Forest
biosphere reserve nature park offers a variety of attractions within its
untouched natural surroundings : Baron
von Hacke’s baroque castle, the romantic Karl’s Valley gorge, open-air
classsical concerts in the courtyard of the Wilenstein castle ruins, water
supply tunnel, new iron-industry museum and walk, sculpture way with modern
stone, wooden and metal sculptures designed by international artists etc., etc.
But
th most valuable attraction of all is the Palatinate Forest itself, which was
given its name at the Johanniskreuz annexe over 150 years ago. Where deadly
nightshade grows, and kingfishers and wild cats live, must be the perfect
surroundings for humans too. It’s certainly no coincidence that the junction
where roads crossed long ago has now become a very popular place for an outing.
Now
enjoy discovering the climatic health resort of Trippstadt with its beautiful
surroundings and plentiful opportunities for recreation and sport.
Yesterday,
Today and Tomorrow
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Trippstadt’s
History
In
the past historical events were very significant with regard to settlements.
Citizens were definitely influenced by conditions of living and imperial courts.
From
Celtic times trading routes lead over the ridge of the Palatinate Forest to
Johanniskreuz; later the Romans also used these roads and extended them
Settlements developed especially in those areas protected by castles, where feudal lords and servants made
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their homes. Consequently Trippstadt became very
closely bound to Wilenstein Castle. The castle was probably built mid 12th
century by the Staufers. The oldest documents that have been found with records
of the castle and its inhabitants originate from 1174/79. The oldest document
naming our village (“Driebescheit”) was a deed of gift from 1293.
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Trippstadt
experienced a very eventful, and, at times, a very troubled history. In 1635 it
was almost completely destroyed and only 70 people had reassembled there by
1685. (By 1750 there were again
approx. 400 inhabitants .)
Forestry
work and the iron-industry founded in Karl’s Valley by Head Master of the Hunt,
Baron Ludwig Anton von Hacke, in 1727 were of great importance for the
development of the community. The iron-industry provided work in the foundries
and at the same time about 50 men from Trippstadt were able to earn a living for
their families as charcoal-burners, because enormous amounts of charcoal were
needed for smelting. Baron Franz Carl von Hacke inherited from his father in
1752 and continued his works. He had the catholic church built in 1752/54 and
the magnificent castle in 1764/67.
The
name “Gienanth” is also closely connected to our village’s history as the
Hacke estate changed into the hands of the Gienanth family in 1803/04.
Trippstadt
presents itself today as a CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORT (since 1986) with a modern
communal infrastructure well combined with tourism - (heated open-air swimming
pool, sport and recreational opportunities, busy society/club life and two
lively church communities.
Further
information about Trippstadt is available under >Arbeitsgemeinschaft
Heimatkunde (Local History Work Group) Trippstadt.
Trippstadt
is situated about 15 km south of Kaiserslautern in the Palatinate Forest
biosphere reserve nature park. The village itself lies at approximately 410m
above sea level, the highest point being the Steinberg at 528 m. Almost 3,000
people are resident within its boundaries.
20
suburbs, or so-called annexes, belong to the main village. Some of them consist
of just one or two houses:
Antonihof, Ascbacherhof, Bartelsberg, Bergfeld, Gutenbrunn, Hasenberg,
Heidenkopf, Johanniskreuz, Karlstalhaus, Langensohl, Lauberhof, Meiserspring,
Meisertal, Mittelhammer, Neuhof, Oberhammer, Sägmühle, Tiefenteich,
Unterhammer, Weiherfelderhof, Wilensteinerhof, Wilensteinermühle.
You
can find an up to date map of Trippstadt under > www.stadtplan.net
This
group exists in its present form as from 1990. Its predecessors were named AG
Chronik des Volksbildungswerks Trippstadt 1975 whose aim was to produce a
chronicle, and the “Museum Work Group” which was founded by the Tourist
Association upon the proposal of the headmaster of the village school in 1985,
Mr. Franz Sitzenstuhl. He also began extending their tasks to research on local
history and geography.
The
work group consists of 12 permanent members
and several correspondants and has made a name for itself within specialists’
circles. It has built up extensive archives, publishes the “Blätter zur
Heimatgeschichte von Trippstadt (Notes on Trippstadt’s Local History) as well
as numerous books and brochures, and is in charge of the village’s
Iron-Industry Museum. Mr. Dieter Faas, Gutenbrunnerhof
5, 67705
Trippstadt, tel. (06306) 1265 is chairman of this team,
The
local history team concentrates mainly on research and publication of such
matters. However, it also explores and catalogues, if necessary signposts,
regional artistic and land objects e.g. the castle and its gardens, the castle
ruins at Wilenstein, the remarkable water supply tunnel, gravestones and
boundary-stones. A further important aspect is iooking into the hisory of the
local iron-industry and the annexes. In addition it assists with enquiries from
families tracing their backgrounds.
Publications
issued by our work group can be ordered online
“Clean
Air” in Trippstadt’s Climatic Health Resort.
In
1986 Trippstadt was officially recognized as a registered climatic health resort.
Since then the quality of the air is tested every 5 years at points stipulated
by the Meteorological Authorities. Measurements are made at the test stations of
dust, smut and exhaust particles in the air. These are then analysed by the
German Weather Service in Freiburg.
Over
the past years we have been more than satisfied with the results of the tests.
The quality of the air has improved considerably in comparison with the first
measurements made in 1986. The smut particles fell distinctly.
Trippstadt
owes its clean, aromatic air to its geographical location: It is situated on a
high, open ridge at the centre of the extensive Palatinate Forest, a nature
biosphere reserve, Germany’s largest unified wooded area. The forest
provides a continuous renewal of the air so that experts’ verdicts
certify that a “mild highland climate with more than average sunshine and
little fog prevails”. According to medical knowledge and perception, this type
of climate is ideal for convalescence and a “climatic cure” where exercise
in fresh, clean air is of great importance.
So
let’s get going. Lots of suggestions for walks or hikes are awaiting you. You
can begin with shorter walks of a few kilometres on the well-marked paths and
then increase them up to a whole day’s hike.The soothing atmosphere of the
majestic beech and oak trees, and the absolute stillness and tranquility will
make you relax. Soon you’ll notice how your daily stress and hectic attitude
slowly disappear and you can breathe the healthy forest air in deeply.
The
tourist office is the central starting point for any questions concerning your
stay in the Palatinate Forest. Our competent team will assist you directly in
the office or readily advise you per telephone or email.
Places
of Interest / Attractions
The most
beautiful and most typical aspect of what the Palatinate has to offer regarding
nature is the Palatinate Forest biosphere reserve. The climatic health resort of
Trippstadt lies at the heart of this never changing landscape – at the centre
of the Palatinate Forest. Many people consider our annexe Johanniskreuz
as the central point of the Palatinate.
The
castle in Trippstadt, Castle Wilenstein and the famous, romantic Karl’s Valley
are the highlight of every visit to the climatic health resort of Trippstadt.
Also of interest is a passage through the water supply tunnel, a visit to the
Iron-industry museum or a blacksmith’s demonstation at the old smithy.
Or
take a walk along the Rhineland Palatinate Sculpture Way to Aschbacherhof or to
the stables at Meiserhof.
Discover
the numerous castles and citadels, red rocks and cliffs, as well as quiet gorges
on hikes or mountain bike tours. On hot days we recommend a cooling dip in our
open-air pool.
You
can obtain plenty of tips for outings and excursions – not only for rainy days
– to every corner of the Palatinate from the tourist office. >
Tourist-Information-
The Palatinate, the forest, red
sandstone, Trippstadt, Franz Carl Joseph Freiherr von Hacke, Sigmund Jakob
Haeckher, the castle and the water supply tunnel. All of these terms are
intertwined with one another.
Trippstadt’s
castle was designed in baroque style by a local architect and surveyor from
Zweibruecken, Sigmund Jakob Haeckher. It was constructed with accurately hewn,
smooth red square sandstones, presumably from a quarry in the vicinity.
The
results of research have proven that the water tunnel was built at the same time
and by the same architect to supply the village and the castle with fresh water.
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The
“Brunnenstollen” (well adit) collected water from outlets in the Quellbach
valley and re-directed it through a passable tunnel in the direction of
Trippstadt. It served the population and the castle from 1767 until 1965. The
tunnel was constructed as in ancient times by beginning at the two ends and
working towards a connecting point at the centre. The sections in the red
sandstone rocks were either hewn or blasted with controlled detonations. Part of
the construction ( the 2 intake ducts and sections of the main collector) were
built openly, covering the two stone walls with an arched roof.
Some
tunnel specialists are of the opinion that this tunnel, the “Trippstadter
Brunnenstollen”, originating from the end of the 18th century, with
its two construction methods and differing sections is an unique historical
monument in Europe. The construction consists of two intake ducts and one main
collector. At the outward end of the tunnel there is a shelf basin with two
compartments. The water was directed from here through wooden dikes ( later iron
pipes) to the village and directly to the castle itself.
Details:
Main
collector 285.85 m long
197.87m
of the main collector are underground in the rock formation.
Intake
duct 1: 29.80 m long
Intake
duct 2: 46.25 m long with 2 50 x 50 cm. ventilation shafts
For
further information >Brunnenstollen
The Wilo castle on the crags above Karl’s Valley was built in the middle of the 12th century, presumably by
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Emperor Friedrich 1.
During the decades that followed the
Lords of Wilenstein were considered as from the best known ministerial
departments in the Lauter region. The fortress was destroyed during a fewd in
1334, but was soon rebuilt as a dual castle with two owners; the Falkensteiners
and the Floersheimers(Flersheimers). Due to complicated circumstances of
changing ownership a lot of transactions were made.
A
castle chapel at Wilenstein is documented in the Worms’ synod of 1496. It was
dedicated to Saint George and was subordinate to the Aschbach parish. The castle
was destroyed once more during the Thirty Years War.
It passed into the hands of Freiherr von Hacke during the 18th century.
Only ruins remained of the former castle. The Wilenstein estate and mill were
then constructed around it.
In
1958 – 1960 the old castle was partially rebuilt and is presently in use as as
a youth hostel.
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At
the middle of the 19th century Trippstadt flourished as a result of
the iron –industry boom. Due to the large tree stock and iron-ore resources
discovered in the region, the iron-extraction and iron–production-industry
developed and brought wealth and prosperity to Trippstadt. It wasn’t until
mineral coal replaced the charcoal needed for smelting that the industry began
to decline, and the last iron-industry works in Trippstadt were closed down in
1692.
This
industrial period is illustrated to Trippstadt’s visitors at the iron-industry
museum by means of almost 100 exponents and wall charts. The exhibition rooms,
which were opened in May 1999, are situated on the upper floor of the former
smithy Huber building. The tourist office is also here. The black-smith’s shop
was kept going until 1988 and is still completely functional to this day. On the
occasion of the charcoal burner’s festivals demonstrations are held regularly,
but the fires are also lit for black-smith demonstrations within our special
group arrangements.
The whole conception is completed by our iron-industry theme trail through Karl’s Valley, where 12 points of
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interest are passed. Among other things foundries, or
remains of the iron works can be seen.
Relevant
information, maps etc. to aid your holiday planning are available at a small
charge.
Johanniskreuz
is situated at the very centre of the Palatinate Forest, 473 m. above sea-level.
In days long ago it was a very important junction where all the main trading
routes crossed. Even Emperor Barbarossa came by here on his way to
Kaiserslautern from Trifels. Today hikers can still find their way in the
knowledge that all path-markings in the form of a cross lead to Johanniskreuz.
At
the end of the19th century a splendid spa resort was established here
with a forest spa hotel and an inn.
Thousands
of holidaymakers come and enjoy the tranquility and can relax while rambling
along the paths of the large marked network. 10 local, circular routes, ranging
from a comfortable walk to a day’s hike, provide pleasure for everyone.
The
established hotels and restaurants at Johanniskreuz attract many visitors for
weekends or longer holidays. They offer a complete service for their guests’
well-being and enjoyment.
Further
information is available in the accommodation directory. Descriptions of walks
or hikes can be ordered >online at a small charge.
Karl’s
Valley is one of the most beautiful places to take a walk in the Palatinate
Forest. It is, in fact,perhaps THE most beautiful rambling kilometre in the
entire forest. The path leads along the banks of a winding stream where now and
again wooden bridges allow you to cross to the other side, and benches offer you
the opportunity to sit down and relax awhile. The wooden pavilion at the
half-way stage of the gorge is a very popular spot for taking photographs, but
also for listening to the water rushing by.
The
water ripples over branches and stones, gurgles around big rocks, flows
elegantly along between tree trunks lying in the stream bed, bounds rapidly
around bends and curves down into the valley. The sun’s rays penetrate through
beech trees’ leaves overhead making drops of water sparkle and glisten
Friedrich
Ludwig von Sckell, founder of landscape gardening (architecture) in Germany, was
entrusted with re-planning and the new outlay of the castle gardens in 1780. He
describes Karl’s Valley: “One of the most beautiful valleys I’ve ever seen
of this kind lies within Trippstadt’s boundaries; Karl’s Valley was its name”.
A
black, square plaque placed at the entrance to Karl’s Valley is in memoriam of
a royal visit. King Ludwig 1 of Bavaria,Grand Duke Ludwig 111 of Hessen and
Archduchess Hildegard of Austria and their noble entourage lingered in Karl’s
Valley on 9th August 1862.
The
best starting point for a walk through Karl’s Valley is 200 m. downstream at
the Wilenstein mill. You reach the marked path by crossing the small bridge at
the rear of the pond. The mill has been in possession of the Klug family since
1842 ( “Klug’sche Muehle” ). After extensive renovations the Klug’sche Mühle
has again become a very popular place for walks and outings.
Churches
and Chapels
The
oldest church stood at Ascherbacherhof. It was first mentioned in deeds dating
1215. It belonged to St. Blasius catholic parish at Aschbach, to which
Trippstadt and its annexes also belonged. In 1560 this church became the first
Lutheran church in the Palatinate. At the end of the 18th century it
was in bad condition, the roof had collapsed. Only the church tower remains
today.
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Trippstadt’s
evangelical church was originally a catholic chapel. One of the stones in the
cross-costal-vault provides proof of this old house of God. In 1744 a new church
was built on the same site in place of the presumably dilapidated chapel; by
then it had certainly become too small. Today this building forms the transept
of the evangelical church, which was given its present day form in 1895.
The catholic Barons von Hacke had the catholic church built. It was
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consecrated in
1754. At the same time it was determined to be the burial place for the von
Hacke family. Over the years St. Josef’s catholic church has been altered
several times.
The chapel in Neuhöfertal is a real gem. It was built in 1777 by a farmer called Jakob Nothof, grateful because,” his protestant wife Anne Maria Kraemer had returned to the catholic faith”. The chapel was renovated in 1907 and extended to its present-day size.
The
Baroque Castle and the Castle Gardens
The
most striking building in Trippstadt is the castle in baroque style, the small
residence in the Palatinate Forest, constructed for Franz Karl Josef von Hacke.
As Head Master of the Hunt he was granted rule over Wilenstein. It was his duty
to control the electorate hunting and forestry grounds.
Construction
began in 1764 according to the plans of an architect named Sigmund Jacob
Haeckher, and was completed in 1767. It is a one-winged,
two-storied building. The tympan above the middle section facing the road
is decorated with elaborately hewn reliefs. They represent the coats of arms of
the Hacke and Sturmfeder alliance. The complete facade is constructed with
exactly hewn, red sandstone bricks that were presumably acquired from a quarry
near Trippstadt.
The
grounds directly below the castle, the castle gardens, are surrounded by a high
wall. The gardens were originally layed out in Versailles syle and were
considerably larger than today.
Woods
– Fields – Lakes - and - Sculptures
At the
very centre of this natural idyl, the Palatinate Forest, our guests come across
works of art created by hand: Sculptures made of red sandstone, wood or steel,
some of which tone in with the landscape and others that form a complete
contrast with nature due to their abstract design. New, surprising effects are
created during the changing seasons.
On
the Artists’ Trail
In the
meantime more than 30 works of art have been created at sculptors’ symposien
held at regular intervals since 1986.
These works of art form part of the Rhineland Palatinate “Sculptors’ (Walk) Way” stretching from Kusel in the north-west to Jockgrim in the south. Both lovers of art and hikers are called upon and encouraged to analyse art in natural surroundings. Each work of art expresses its own individual character, and yet ,all together, they portray a successfully combined entirety.
A tour
under expert guidance providing professional explanations and artistic
interpretations make it a special experience.
A
firmly anchored part of the Palatinate way of life are the culinary delicacies
that will be set before you in the climatic health resort of Trippstadt.
How
would you like a delicious potatoe (Grumbeer) speciality, fresh-smoked trout,
fine mushroom or venison dishes, or a real ‘Schlachtplatte’ butcher’s
plate (black / liver sausage, mince and liver meat balls,pork etc.) and the
original Palatinate “Saumagen” (spiced chopped pork)?
We
have an exclusive offer especially for walkers’ groups. The surprise of a
magnificently set table in the middle of the woods would make any mouth water:
e.g.typical Palatinate dish - potatoe soup, “Dampfnudeln” (kind of dough
dumpling) and wine sauce, and, of course, a glass of local wine. It’s a
sensation!
Alongside
our typically Palatinate restaurants there are two Italian ones in the village.
So you have plenty of choice.
Our Heated Open-air Swimming Pool
Pack your Bags!
The
superbly well-kept, heated, open-air pool in Trippstadt welcomes its guests with
a Mediterranean atmosphere and friendly service.
Beautiful
large green lawns surround in all almost 2000 m2 of water -
ideal for all ages to play, splash around and swim. The separate
diving-pool and giant slide are great fun.
Breakfast,
coffee, daily lunch menüs, all freshly prepared on the spot, and delicious
home-made cakes are served at the modern, well-equipped kiosk.
The
highlight of the season is the pool festival, held in the summer holidays, with
games and competitions for children; “floodlight” swimming and live
entertainment round off the day..
Opening
times:
Saturday,
Sunday and holidays: 8 a.m.
- 8 p.m.
Monday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Tuesday-Friday
9 a.m. - 8 p.m
RESTAURANTS & CAFES
Would
you like a surprise picnic in the woods?
Name
us your wishes, date and numbers and we’ll make you a non-binding offer.
Accommodation for individuals or groups
Group activities/ programmes
Special flat-rate holiday offers
The planning of guided or individual hikes and mountain bike tours
through
the forest
Sale of maps, regional products and literature about the Palatinate
Numerous
prospects and informative brochures are available to help you plan your vacation
in the climatic health resort of Trippstadt.
Hauptstrasse 26
67705
Trippstadt
Telphone:
+49 (0)6306 – 341
Fax:
+49 (0)6306 – 1529
e-mail: info@pfaelzerwald-touristik.de
Opening
hours:
Monday
– Friday 8 – 12 a.m. and 2
– 4 p.m.
Saturday
10 – 12 a.m.(May – September)
YOUR
HOSTS
A Vacation that
Fulfills Your Every Wish
Tourist office, Overnight accommodation,Hotels, guest-houses, private boarding houses,
Holiday flats& houses,
Private lodgings
Convalescent homes Hostels
Eating and drinking
Special holiday
offers
Sightseeing
attractions
Your journey
directions
Recreation &
sport
Events Culture
Forum
Do
you prefer the service and comfort of an hotel, guest house or inn? Do you like
to be independant in a self-catering appartment? Or the special atmosphere of a
camp site? What about a riding or a farmhouse holiday? Are you looking for
overnight accommodation for a group, or meeting rooms? All of these
possibilities are available in Trippstadt at the heart of the Palatinate Forest.
As
a climatic health resort we offer perfect holiday conditions for anyone
suffering from asthma or an allergy. Some places of accommodation offer special
allergy equipped rooms.
If
you come across >RESERVIEREN>, you can make a direct inquiry with that
particular hotel/hostel. Just complete the form and send it off.
Please choose your accommodation
category:
www.pfaelzerwald-touristik.de
Accommodation in
hostels
Translated by Rosemary Celim,
Trippstadt