Baumgarten

Nestled in the picturesque town of Füssen, Bavaria, the Baumgarten is a captivating blend of history and nature, offering visitors a serene escape with a touch of ancient intrigue. This public park, perched on an elevation adjacent to the Hohe Schloss, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by those who appreciate the harmonious blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

The Enchanting Landscape of Baumgarten

Situated southwest of Füssen's charming old town, the Baumgarten is flanked by the Lech River to the south and the Hohe Schloss to the east. To the west lies the Kobel, a wooded ridge that separates Füssen from the tranquil Faulenbacher Valley. Together with the castle hill and the Kobel, the Baumgarten forms the eastern end of the Falkensteinkamm, a scenic ridge that beckons adventurers and peace seekers alike.

The park itself stretches approximately 300 meters in length and 100 meters at its widest point, offering ample space for leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation. The Morisse, a man-made rock cut, divides the Baumgarten from the Kobel, creating a dramatic backdrop for the park's lush greenery. A pedestrian bridge spans this rocky chasm, inviting visitors to traverse its heights and take in the stunning vistas below.

A Journey Through Time

The history of the Baumgarten is as rich and layered as the landscape itself. Originally part of the castle hill of the Hohe Schloss, it is believed to be a possible site of Damasia, the capital of the Licatii tribe, which was destroyed by the Romans. The ancient Via Claudia Augusta, a Roman road, likely passed by or through the Baumgarten, linking it to the broader tapestry of Roman history in the region.

Throughout the centuries, the Baumgarten has seen many transformations. In the late Roman Empire, a fort stood on the castle hill, and by the 9th century, the nearby St. Mang's Monastery was founded. The Hohe Schloss was expanded between 1486 and 1489, with the natural moat between the castle and the Baumgarten deepened for fortification purposes.

The Baumgarten was once owned by the monastery, serving variously as a herb garden and even a short-lived vineyard. In the 17th century, a baroque garden was likely established on the ridge, adding a touch of elegance to the rugged terrain.

Modern Transformations and Attractions

By the 19th century, the Baumgarten had become integral to Füssen's water supply, with wooden pipes replaced by cast-iron ones in the mid-1800s. Around 1900, the city of Füssen acquired the Baumgarten, transforming it into a public park as tourism began to flourish. Paths were laid, trees planted, and a wooden pavilion erected, offering visitors a place to rest and soak in the surroundings.

One of the park's most intriguing features is the Brunnhaus, a portal to a high reservoir styled as an artificial ruin. Designed by Munich architect Beeckmann in 1897, this structure once housed a fountain grotto, where water cascaded down terraced steps—a nod to the park's historical role in Füssen's water supply.

On the western edge of the park, near the Morisse, stands a wooden pavilion with a triangular base. Originally constructed when the park was first laid out, it has been renewed over the years, continuing to offer panoramic views of the lush, undulating landscape.

A Place of Reflection and Celebration

Throughout its history, the Baumgarten has been a site of both reflection and celebration. During the Nazi era, it hosted annual solstice celebrations by the Hitler Youth. Near the end of World War II, it served as quarters for soldiers from the Vlasov Army, a testament to its strategic location and enduring significance.

Today, the Baumgarten invites visitors to explore its paths, discover its historical remnants, and enjoy the peace it offers. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a quiet spot to unwind, the Baumgarten promises a memorable experience.

Embrace the Magic of Baumgarten

As you wander through the Baumgarten, take a moment to imagine the lives that have passed through this enchanting space. From ancient tribes and Roman legions to medieval monks and modern-day visitors, the Baumgarten is a tapestry of stories woven into the very fabric of Füssen's history.

Whether you're gazing up at the Hohe Schloss, crossing the Morisse, or resting in the shade of the pavilion, the Baumgarten offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. It's a place where the past whispers through the trees and the present invites you to pause and reflect.

In conclusion, the Baumgarten is not just a park; it's a living testament to Füssen's rich heritage and the timeless allure of Bavaria's landscapes. A visit here is an invitation to step back in time, breathe in the beauty of nature, and discover the stories that have shaped this remarkable corner of the world.