Kaufbeuren

Kaufbeuren, an independent town in Bavaria's Swabia region, offers a passage through centuries of time, framed by its medieval town walls and the distant peaks of the Alps. Often called the 'gateway to the Allgäu,' it weaves together historical architecture with a lively cultural landscape. Wander through narrow lanes, admire homes painted in soft colors, and uncover a town that has carefully preserved its past while embracing contemporary life.

The town's spirit is shaped by its past as a Free Imperial City and its enduring customs, most notably the Tänzelfest, Bavaria's oldest historical children's festival. Beyond the historical core, Kaufbeuren extends into distinct neighborhoods, each with its own narrative, such as Neugablonz, a testament to post-war resilience and artistry. Whether you are drawn to medieval towers, local festivals, or unique artisan crafts, Kaufbeuren provides an authentic Bavarian experience.

## From Frankish Outpost to Free Imperial City Kaufbeuren's beginnings trace back to approximately 740 AD as a Frankish military outpost, with evidence suggesting human habitation in the area as early as the Neolithic Age. The town was first officially recorded in 1112. By the late Middle Ages, Kaufbeuren had grown into a prosperous city. It achieved its status as a Free Imperial City around 1288, granting it direct accountability to the Holy Roman Emperor and independence from local feudal lords, a status it maintained until 1803. This autonomy fostered a thriving medieval trade center, contributing to the construction of its well-preserved old town, including its Gothic town hall and defensive towers.

## Reformation, Conflicts, and Bavarian Integration During the Reformation, the majority of Kaufbeuren initially converted to Protestantism, though the town eventually returned to Catholicism, which remains the dominant religion in Bavaria. The 16th and 17th centuries brought religious conflicts, a significant plague epidemic in 1627-1628, and repeated looting during the Thirty Years' War, which hindered the town's development into a contemporary fortress. In the early 1800s, Kaufbeuren became part of Bavaria. The Industrial Revolution that followed in the 19th century led to a tripling of its population.

## Post-War Resettlement and Modern Growth World War II saw Kaufbeuren house a German air force base, and after the war, it was occupied by US forces. The city survived the war largely intact, with planned bomber attacks on a munitions factory often thwarted by cloudy weather. A significant post-war development was the establishment of Neugablonz in 1946. This district was built on the ruins of a former munitions factory and settled by Sudeten German expellees from Gablonz (now Jablonec nad Nisou, Czech Republic), who brought with them their skilled jewelry industry. This influx contributed to an economic surge that has sustained Kaufbeuren's population for decades, and the former air base now serves as a German Air Force training center.

Begin your exploration in the Altstadt, the old city, where medieval character is evident. Walk along sections of the original town wall, dating back to 1200, and ascend some of its towers. The Fünfknopfturm (Five-Button Tower), a 33-meter-high brick tower built around 1420, is the town's landmark. Its name comes from the five decorative spheres on its main spire and four corner turrets. From its heights, you can absorb expansive views of the old town and the Allgäu Alps.

The neo-Gothic Town Hall, constructed in 1879, anchors the market square. Nearby, the St.-Martins-Kirche (St. Martin's Church) rises 65 meters, displaying impressive Gothic architecture. For a deeper understanding of local history, the Stadtmuseum Kaufbeuren offers insights into the town's development, its textile industry, and its post-Reformation religious history. It also houses a collection of Protestant reverse-glass paintings and a crucifix collection.

Do not overlook the Crescentiakloster (Crescentia Monastery), an ancient monastery dating back to 1150, which is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Crescentia. In the Neugablonz district, explore the 'Path of Jewellery' (Weg des Schmucks) to learn about the history and creation of costume jewelry, with opportunities to observe artisans at work.

For art enthusiasts, the Kunsthaus Kaufbeuren, housed in a restored 18th-century building, features rotating exhibitions of regional and international artists.

The most favorable time to visit Kaufbeuren for warm-weather activities is from early July to late August. During this period, temperatures are agreeable, averaging around 23°C (72°F), though July is also the wettest month. This time also coincides with the Tänzelfest, Bavaria's oldest historical children's festival, which unfolds over twelve days in mid-July. Spring (May) offers mild weather, ideal for walking tours, with temperatures ranging from 6-16°C (43-61°F). Fall also provides pleasant weather and fewer crowds for a more relaxed visit. While winter can be cold, with January lows averaging -4°C (24°F), the city transforms with a Christmas market and the world's largest Advent wreath.

Kaufbeuren is in Bavaria, approximately an hour southwest of Munich by train. The city is readily accessible by the A96 highway. Once there, the historic center is best explored on foot, allowing you to appreciate its architecture and inviting streets. Local buses connect the different districts, including Neugablonz. Public transportation also offers connections to nearby cities like Kempten and Füssen.

Accommodation options range from hotels to apartments. When dining, seek out traditional Bavarian dishes at local restaurants. The official language is German, with Swabian and Allgäuerisch dialects spoken locally. In Neugablonz, the northern Bohemian dialect of Paurisch can occasionally be heard. It is advisable to know some basic German phrases, though English is often understood in areas catering to visitors. For any official registrations or inquiries, the Bürgerbüro (Citizens' Office) is the point of contact.