Schwabisch Gmund

On a sunny Tuesday morning, after breakfast, P drove us down to Schwäbisch Gmund. Sagi wanted to experience the German Autobahn (freeway) and the 45 min drive was the right opportunity. 

Schwäbisch Gmund (SG) is a lovely little town, situated 47 kms from Stuttgart. P explained that SG is one of the few towns in the region that survived the WWII bombings and hence was able to retain its old buildings. The town has many churches and they are kept in pristine condition. As you wander aimlessly through the town, you feel as if you are transported back in time, into the medieval ages. 

An ornately carved church door

The town has many watchtowers. We paid a small fee and climbed on top of a watchtower, which gave a spectacular view of the entire town. The climb was very long and claustrophobic. I had to take a couple of breaks to catch my breath. But I felt it was worth it. P graciously carried MC all the way to the top. 

Huffing my way up the tower!!!

View from the church tower

We entered inside one of the many churches, Heilig - Kreuz - Munster (Holy Cross Cathedral. The cathedral, as well as the other churches, houses many small chapels. P explained that in the medieval days, prosperous town folks would build chapels in the memory of their departed relatives so that they could enter Heaven without going through Purgatory.

A well maintained old building

Market Square

For lunch, we went to a tavern and I was pleasantly surprised by my experience. The menu card was in English!!! Even the restaurants at Stuttgart did not have a menu card in English. The stewardess gave a drawing paper and a few color pencils to MC, which kept her occupied. I ordered a vegetarian dish and she was kind enough to inform me that the stock was made of beef bones. I was very impressed with the thoughtfulness. The food was extremely delicious. Sagi enjoyed his first wheat beer.

Paulaner Tavern at the Market

A garden exhibition was going on at Schwabisch Gmund. P explained the town had competed with other towns in the area to host this exhibition.

Flower exhibition at Schwabisch Gmund

It is not a well - known tourist destination, as we were clearly the only bunch roaming aimlessly around. Nevertheless, it is definitely a must see place for people who would appreciate the charm of the medieval period.