Wertheim

Wertheim, a captivating town where the Tauber and Main rivers converge, offers a journey through centuries of German history and allure. Overlooked by the majestic remnants of Wertheim Castle, the town's medieval core is a labyrinth of narrow, paved thoroughfares and exquisitely preserved half-timbered structures. Its strategic location at the confluence of two major rivers has shaped its destiny, fostering both prosperity through commerce and resilience in the face of frequent inundations.

As you wander through Wertheim, you will discover a place where history is not merely confined to museums but etched into the very fabric of the town. From tilting towers and buildings with intriguing architectural quirks to the subtle brass plaques remembering past residents, every corner holds a narrative. Wertheim also serves as a gateway to the celebrated Franconian wine region and a favored stop on river cruises, offering a blend of cultural immersion and natural splendor.

## From Roman Roads to Reformation Wertheim's origins extend to the early Middle Ages, with the first settlement documented as early as 779. The town as we know it today truly began to form in the 12th century, developing around a formidable castle constructed by the Counts of Wertheim. Building on Wertheim Castle commenced around 1180, establishing it as a potent symbol of regional authority and a crucial military stronghold.

By 1306, Wertheim had officially received city rights, enabling it to thrive as a vital market and trade hub. Its strategic position at the confluence of the Main and Tauber rivers facilitated commerce and travel across Germany, contributing significantly to its economic vitality. The town even gained the privilege to mint its own coins in 1363 under Emperor Charles IV. Wertheim also played a notable part in the 16th century by becoming an early proponent of the Protestant Reformation, distinguishing it from the predominantly Catholic surrounding region.

## Turbulent Eras and Enduring Legacy The castle, continuously expanded until the 17th century, sustained severe damage in 1619 from a devastating gunpowder explosion. The tumultuous Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) brought further destruction, with the castle suffering from artillery attacks by imperial troops in 1634, ultimately leading to its ruination. For centuries, the castle lay in romantic disuse, a silent witness to its eventful past, though portions have been meticulously preserved and restored since 1982.

In the 19th century, Wertheim underwent significant administrative transformations. Following the Congress of Vienna in 1806, the county of Wertheim was divided, with the area left of the Main River joining the Grand Duchy of Baden and the territories on the right bank becoming part of the Kingdom of Bavaria. This division explains why Wertheim, despite its Franconian appearance, is officially part of Baden-Württemberg. Today, Wertheim, with a population of approximately 24,000, continues to be a picturesque destination, celebrated for its well-preserved medieval architecture and profound history.

Begin your exploration at the Marktplatz, Wertheim's central square, encircled by appealing half-timbered houses. Here, you will find the Angel Fountain (Engelsbrunnen), a red sandstone masterwork from 1574 adorned with angelic figures. Nearby, the distinctive Blue House (Blaues Haus), dating to 1593, stands out with its rare cobalt-blue facade.

A brief walk leads to the Spitzer Turm (Leaning Tower), a 13th-century watchtower with a noticeable inclination, offering a glimpse into its past as a medieval prison. Do not overlook the Stiftskirche, a Gothic Protestant church from the late 1300s, notable for its distinctive clock tower and historic interior. For a deeper immersion into local craft, the Glasmuseum Wertheim displays over 3,000 years of glass history, from ancient artifacts to modern scientific instruments, and frequently features live glassblowing demonstrations.

No visit to Wertheim is complete without ascending to the Wertheim Castle ruins. The climb is repaid with sweeping views over the confluence of the Main and Tauber rivers and the surrounding valleys – one of the finest vantage points in the region. The castle grounds are free to enter and offer a captivating journey through medieval architecture.

Wertheim is delightful in spring and early summer (May to September), when flowers bloom, the market square is lively, and the weather is pleasantly warm, with daytime highs averaging 23-25°C in July and August. Autumn is also an excellent time, as the Franconian Mainviereck vineyards awaken with the wine harvest, and the hillsides turn golden. While winters are cold, with average lows around freezing, the town can be atmospheric, especially during the Christmas season.

Wertheim's old town is compact and entirely walkable, with many key sights readily accessible on foot from the river docks if arriving by cruise. For those arriving by train, Wertheim is approximately 1.5 hours from Frankfurt. The local currency is the Euro (€), and German is the official language, though English is generally spoken in main tourist areas. Allow at least two to three hours to explore the old town and castle. The Tourist Information Wertheim office is located at Marktplatz 8. Consider a stop at Bäckerei Gerd Frischmuth for traditional pretzels. For those interested in local wines, the Weingut Alte Grafschaft winery in nearby Kreuzwertheim offers tastings.