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Home , Alsenz (river), Bad Kreuznach, Bad Kreuznach (district), Birkenfeld (district), Glan (Nahe), Kaiserslautern

YOU´RE IN THE RIGHT PLACE YOU´RE

PORTRAIT HEALTH ACTIVE of the town and Wellbeing and nature YOU´RE RIGHT PLACE THE IN

You’re in the right place 04 Portrait of the town Enjoy your holidays in Bad Kreuz- nach. This picturesque old town, 06 Resort in the heart of the countryside with riverbanks on both arms of YOU NEED A RELAXING BREAK? YOU the River, offers a variety of 10 The Nahe wine and gourmet region ARE LOOKING FOR AN EXCITING parks and a breathtaking natural CULTURAL LANDSCAPE STEEPED IN landscape. The spa district and HISTORY. YOU WANT TO DISCOVER the Salinental (Saline Valley) form 12 Health & Wellbeing A BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPE BY BIKE a holiday island which is just OR HIKING BOOTS? YOU WANT TO minutes away from a pedestrian- 18 Museums – variety of exhibitions TAKE A DIP IN THE SPA CULTURE OF only shopping zone. Every year OUR TOWN AND WANT TO EXPE- 140.000 visitors spend 700.000 RIENCE OUR HIGH-QUALITY SPA nights in ‘s hos- 22 Town walk FACILITIES? YOU WANT TO FIND pitals, , guesthouses and A PERFECT STARTING POINT FOR apartments. In addition to seven 28 Simply idyllic – Bad Münster am Stein-Ebernburg DISCOVERING THE -VALLEY clinics with over 1500 beds, more AND THE NAHE WINE REGION? ARE than 100 accomodation providers YOUR ORGANISING A GROUP TRIP are offering 2000 guest beds for 30 Guided Tours (English) AND NEED A VARIED PROGRAMME tourists and conference guests. WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE? This of 50.000 inhabitants is THEN YOU ARE IN THE RIGHT PLACE. also the utility and commercial center of the region.

3 PORTRAIT OF THE TOWNPORTRAIT OF THE

BAD KREUZNACH HAS A LONG Portrait AND EVENTFUL HISTORY.

Settlers came here as early as Stone Age times, and were later of the town followed by and Romans. In its more recent history, Bad Kreuz- nach has belonged to and to .

Cruciniacum was the name of became a famous European spa the Celtic settlement established town. in the 5th century BC. Testimony to the Roman way of life, which Of course, the results of both lasted about 4 centuries, can be world wars left their mark in the found in the Römerhalle (Roman 20th century. After 1945 the town Hall) museum and in the ruins grew to the important regional of the Römervilla (Roman ). center. Wine-growing was introduced during the first three centuries AD Especially vibrant is the healthcare and still shapes the countryside sector, with two fully equipped around Bad Kreuznach. hospitals, five rehabilitation centers and numerous health The parts of town, which still care providers, making it the exist today, were settled on both largest employment sector. The sides of the Nahe River during the manufacturing sector is also a . Since 1300 a stone driving economic structure of the pillar bridge has connected both city with offers 28,000 jobs. Bad parts of town: the Altstadt (Old Kreuznach is home to many world- Town) and Neustadt (New Town) class companies, such as Schneider below the . During the Thirty Optics, producing the highest Years’ War (1618–1649), the town quality optics on the market for was conquered repeatedly and over 90 years. lost two thirds of its population. Under Bad Kreuznach Exceptionally robust is the retail belonged to France. The 19th sector. Here unfolds Bad Kreuz- century brought the development nach is able to show its flair, offe- of the therapeutic salt spas. ring a shopping experience in the Thanks to travelers from England quiet of a pedestrian-only zone, wanting to improve their health making it an attractive regional in the Rhine Valley, Bad Kreuznach center.

5 ACTIVE & NATURE

Resort in River. Oranienpark offers not only a natural flair but also family fun with miniature golf. Lovers of rare and exotic plants will love the the heart Schloßpark (Castle Park), while the Panoramaweg (Panorama Way) along the provides won- of the derful views of the town. The nearby Rhine Valley with its beautiful countryside has tradi- tionally attracted large numbers countryside of English visitors to the Nahe BAD KREUZNACH LIES AT THE Valley. A journey along the Rhine HEART OF THE PALATINE SPA REGI- became part of the Grand Tour ON. DISCOVER THE TOWN’S MA- for wealthy Britons around 1800. GICAL PARKS AND THE STUNNING The painter William Turner made SURROUNDING COUNTRYSIDE. a number of trips to the continent in the years between 1817 and The vineyards of the Rhineland, 1844, and in 1844 his travels took the wild and romantic scenery him to the tributary valleys of the of the Nahe river valley and the Rhine, including that of the Nahe. peaks of the North Palatine Up- Four paintings of Kreuznach, one lands and Hunsrück mountains: of the Alte Nahebrücke (Old Nahe Bad Kreuznach is the gateway to Bridge), one of Pauluskirche (Paul’s a region of magnificent contrasts. ) and two of the Rotenfels plains, forests, vineyards (Red Cliff s) and Ebernburg Castle and rocky massifs shape this still exist today. diverse and fascinating landscape. It is home to many species of animals and flora found usually in southern climates.

This is the perfect area for strol- ling, hiking, climbing, cycling and downhill mountain biking – offe- ring altitude ranges from 100 to 300 m – or simply enjoying the peace and spaciousness. Good weather tempts people out of doors, and the options here are outstanding. Bad Kreuznach’s impressive range of parks are the perfect place for a gentle stroll and a relaxing day in the fresh air. The Kurpark (Spa Gardens) and Roseninsel (Rose Island) are beautifully situated at the Nahe

7 ACTIVE & NATURE

TourNatur: the Grand (nature) Tour

AN 18-KILOMETRE TRAIL WINDS THROUGH BAD KREUZNACH AND BAD MÜNSTER AM STEIN-EBERN- BURG. IT GIVES WALKERS A FLA- Biking trails around The Salinental valley: VOUR OF THE NATURAL BEAUTY Bad Kreuznach breathe freely in the fresh salty breeze OF THE REGION.

BREATHE IN THE REFRESHING SALT method. The salt water was then The TourNatur trail has been awar- NAHELAND REGION The route runs along the Nahe Ri- AIR AS IF YOU‘RE AT THE SEASIDE. transferred to the boilery where ded the Deutsche Wandersiegel CYCLING ROUTE MAP ver. Just hop on the regional train FEEL THE BENEFITS FOR YOUR salt was extracted. (German Hiking Seal) for premium if you get tired – the route follows AIRWAYS, BRONCHIAL TUBES trails by the Deutsches Wanderin- Detailed map of the 128-kilome- the train line. AND SKIN. EXPERIENCE A UNIQUE Nowadays, the salt water comes stitut (German Hiking Institute). ter-long Nahe cycling route with CULTURAL LANDSCAPE. THIS IS from a 500 metre-deep spring in 500 km of connecting trails. Sections SALINENTAL. the Salinental valley. This spring Rock formations, river valley, fo- Bingen – : 47 km

supplies the graduation towers, rest, vineyards and meadows, spa Scale 1 : 75,000 The Salinental valley is a unique the open-air inhalatorium in the gardens, and breathtaking Bad Sobernheim – Idar-Oberstein: cultural landscape steeped in Kurpark gardens with the saline vistas – this region has everything Detailed description including 34 km history. One graduation tower nebuliser, the thermal baths and a a walker is looking for. links to the Mosel and Rhine cy- after another, each 9 metres high, number of rehabilitation clinics. cling routes. Detailed information Idar-Oberstein to the end: 47 km cover a total of 1.1 kilometres. Salt on cycling shops and sights. water trickles down these impo- Salinental had everything required From Bingen to Bad Kreuznach, sing blackthorn structures which for salt production. Trenches, wa- Individual tours Price: € 5.90 (plus € 3.00 postage, the route runs across the flood form Europe’s largest open-air ter wheels, graduation towers, a on over 100 km if applicable) plain and the scenery is quite inhalatorium. A stroll around here boilery and workers’ houses were stunning. Once you reach Bad is not just good for your health, it in use here for over 100 years. Yet of bike trails Orders to Kreuznach, you pass through the also takes you through the history they would all now be long gone [email protected] Altstadt (Old Town) and Kurvier- of salt extraction. hadn’t the town discovered the Apart from an extensive network tel (Spa District) and on to the medicinal properties of the salt of well-mapped regional cycling THE NAHE CYCLE ROUTE ruggedly beautiful rocky lands- On this very spot where the River springs in 1817. The salt water has routes, another great route to cape that follows. The route then Nahe winds through a towering been used for spa treatments ever discover is the Naheradweg (Nahe 128 km from Bingen to Bad continues to Bad Sobernheim via massif, salt was already being since. Salt water for both inhala- Bike Trail) from Bingen to Bostal Kreuznach, Bad Münster am the vineyards of . extracted 400 years ago. The tion and has remained an Lake. The section from Bad Kreuz- Stein-Ebernburg, Bad Sobernheim, Cyclists of all abilities will have no Nahe valley has numerous salt important remedy, above all for nach to Bad Sobernheim – taking Idar-Oberstein, and to trouble as far as Idar-Oberstein. springs. The salt water here has a rheumatic diseases, asthma and you along the Nahe River – has . The section that follows is more salt content of around 1.5 %. The skin conditions. relatively few ascents and the demanding. extraction process required the surface condition is excellent. It is salt content in the water to be truly one of ’s most stun- increased to 26 %, and the gra- ning cycle routes. Bad Kreuznach is duation towers were a vital step an ideal starting point for shorter ›› INFORMATION: CYCLE MAPS & RENT A BIKE in this process. The salt water ran trips of up to 45 km. The tourist information center in Haus des Gastes (House of Guests) has a range down large frames covered with of cycle maps showing all local and regional cycle routes between the rivers blackthorn and natural evapora- Planning your own route is simple , , Nahe and Mosel. Phone +49 671 8360050 or write to info@bad- tion increased the salt content. with 100 km of clearly signposted kreuznach-tourist.de for more information. Water wheels were used to pump cycle trails. the salt water back up seven times Bicycle rental shops: Tourist-Information, Haus des Gastes, Kurhausstr. 22–24, 55543 Bad Kreuznach to trickle slowly back down. A For tips and information contact Tel. +49 671 8360050, Fax +49 671 8360085, [email protected] salt content of 15 to 20 % could Tourist Information: You can rent e-bikes, touring bicycles and biker-helmets. Reservation is recom- be achieved in a week using this +49(0)671 8360050 mended. We offer special prices for long-term rentals!

9 ENJOYMENT, & RELISH SHOPPING The Nahe wine and gourmet region

have the unique historic charm of Dinner is served – Mannheimer Strasse is the town’s wine-growing . the choice is yours main shopping street and is over 2 km long. Together Bad EXPERIENCE A HEARTY MEAL The Nahe region has an extremely BAD KREUZNACH HAS OVER Kreuznach’s shops, with a total DIRECTLY AT THE VINTNER – dry and mild climate, essential 300 EATERIES, RANGING FROM sales area of over 50,000 m, meet NATURALLY WITH AN EXCELLENT to the excellent wines that have CHAINS TO GOURMET RESTAU- every shopper’s needs. There is WINE? INTERNATIONAL DISHES, been produced here since Roman RANTS. just the right balance between lar- TRADITIONAL FARE OR GOURMET times. Vines in this area thrive on ge chains and department stores CUISINE? CAFÉS WITH HOME- a diverse range of rocks and soils, A “sausage to go” or a five- and smaller shops. MADE CAKES? and this diversity produces wines star meal in an exclusive of rich and varied character. Quali- ambience – anything is possible. FRESH AND VARIED: The culinary scene in and around ty vines grow on steep slopes and We have compiled a list of restau- THE FARMERS’ MARKET Bad Kreuznach will satisfy the gently rolling hills, on red rock, rants we think visitors to our town most exacting of gourmets. Enjoy quartz and , and in clay will appreciate. Did we leave one On Tuesdays and Fridays growers BUY FINE WINE – the wonderful ambience - in street and loess soils. out? Should we add it to the list? from the region sell their products ENJOY TUTORED TASTINGS cafés near the Alte Nahebrücke Please share your experiences. at the traditional farmers’ market (Old Nahe Bridge), in the heart of The most widely grown grape – Simply send us an email. on the Kornmarkt (Grain Market). To help you find the wine you‘re the Kurpark (Spa Gardens) or in and the best known international- After , this is the second looking for, we‘ve made things restaurants offering panoramic ly – is the , which produces largest market in the region. simple: A showcase of the wine- views of the town. a light, fruity low in Shopping in ries of the region is the Nahe-Wi- acidity and strong in character. Bad Kreuznach Every Tuesday and Friday from 7 ne-Whop in the historic ambience Bad Kreuznach also has a great Sylvaner, Pinot Grigio and Pinot am to 1 pm, Kornmarkt, Mannhei- of a manor house in the heart of shopping area and a host of festi- Blanc are also widely cultivated. THE SPA RESORT OF BAD KREUZ- mer Strasse, 150 metres from the Old Town Kreuznach. vals which bring the whole town The main red wines are Dornfelder NACH OFFERS ALL THE AMENITIES Innenstadt (town center) park to life. and Pinot Noir, while Portugieser OF A MAJOR CITY. in the Mühlenstrasse. 50 wineries present 150 wines, is also grown. which can be purchased at estate Customers will find all they need 40 stalls with fresh regional prices. Tutored tastings and group from food, textiles and shoes, to products: packages are naturally part of the Nahe-Valley: electrical items and DIY stores. concept. wine with regional The town’s retail segment has an fruit and vegetables annual turnover of 400 million eggs, meat, sausage and fish Mannheimer Strasse 6 character euros, including 153 million euros potted plants and cut flowers Dienheimer Hof in the town center alone. game and horsemeat 55545 Bad Kreuznach Bad Kreuznach has over 70 wine- freshly pressed oils Tel. +49 671 92005645 growers and more than 700 hec- Bad Kreuznach, with its range and baking goods tares of vineyards, making it one diversity of shops, makes it the Demeter organic products Opening times: of the largest wine-growing areas retail center for the entire region. honeys, jams and jellies www.nahe-vinothek.de in the Nahe region. The districts Superstores, as well as an exten- Greek and international of Bosenheim, Planig, Ippesheim sive pedestrian-only shopping specialities and Winzenheim in particular, still zone can be found here.

11 HEALTH & WELLBEING Health & wellbeing

The health center is housed in a spacious modern building in the town center and is connected BAD KREUZNACH, WITH ITS SALT to the Crucenia Thermen baths. MINERAL SPRINGS, IS ONE OF An established and experienced GERMANY‘S MOST BEAUTIFUL team of physiotherapists, quali- SPA RESORTS. IT WAS IN 1817 fied medicinal bath practitioners WHEN THE SPA BEGAN ITS LONG and masseurs provide top-quality HISTORY WHEN IT STARTED USING service using state-of-the art THE WARM MINERAL WATERS OF treatment methods and therapy THE VALLEY FOR HEALING AND equipment. HEALTH. Use of local salt mineral water and Its wide range of health and spa is combined with the latest facilities makes Bad Kreuznach the forms of treatment. The therapies perfect place to relax and simply offered include: forget the daily grind. baths (medicinal spring, tub BE HEALTHY – carbonic-acid, alternating STAY HEALTHY hot/cold) bath salts/essences Bad Kreuznach‘s spa and curative Salt-mud packs facilities meet the highest of stan- fango packs dards, applying the latest medical massages (partial and full body, and therapeutic approaches. Cru- lymph drainage, compression cenia Health Center provides out- bandaging, reflex zone, patient treatment and specializes underwater, connective tissue) in orthopedics and the treatment respiratory of rheumatic diseases. Courses of physiotherapy in beautiful treatment use Bad Kreuznach’s manual therapy own natural remedies: salt water treatment and exercises in an countryside (from salt mineral springs). exercise pool

13 HEALTH & WELLBEING The Bad Kreuznach Springs

PEOPLE IN BAD KREUZNACH HAVE BEEN HARNESSING THE HEALING EFFECTS OF THE NUMEROUS SALT MINERAL SPRINGS SINCE MORE THAN 200 YEARS.

The spring water is a fluoride-rich sodium chloride solution. The spring is officially recognized as “Heil- wasser”, or medicinal spring Water.

Brine baths for Crucenia Thermal Brine therapy ultimate wellbeing Salt water inhalation Baths: an oasis of BRINE (SALT MINERAL WATER) IS BATHS HELP THOSE SUFFERING SALINENTAL SPA PARK vitalizing micro particles. The tiny the immune system. Hay fever, relaxation THE MOST IMPORTANT LOCAL FROM MUSCULOSKELETAL It is not only possible to inhale salt water droplets in the air (aerosols) a range of grass allergies and REMEDY IN BAD KREUZNACH. PROBLEMS, IN PARTICULAR vapor at the graduation towers or are electrically charged. They sti- even asthma can be successfully RHEUMATIC PAIN. the brine nebuliser. Another parti- mulate the flow of blood through alleviated. CRUCENIA THERMEN (CRUCENIA Mineral water with a salt con- cularly effective method employs the lungs and boost the transport THERMAL BATHS) OFFERS HEALTH, tent of 1.5–2 % is pumped from ALMOST WEIGHTLESS the use of aerosol equipment. of oxygen into the blood com- RELAXATION AND ENJOYMENT a depth of 500 m. Brine has been Brine baths enable patients to pletely naturally, revitalizing every FOR ALL AGES. successfully used to treat a range relax by exercising their muscles, STRENGTHENING CIRCULATORY cell in the body. of diseases since 1817. Today it is tendons and joints gently and AND IMMUNE SYSTEM The modern thermal baths in char- used for bathing and inhalation. with little pain. Salt water is hea- Salt water inhalation is highly The dissolved salt inhaled through ming surroundings are absolutely vier than fresh water and creates beneficial to the airways. The the lungs boosts the body‘s own state-of-the-art. Three indoor and The Salinental (Saline Valley) out- greater buoyancy – bathers feel salty air contains an abundance of cleansing process and strengthens outdoor pools with warm 33° C door inhalatorium, with its brine almost weightless making exer- (91° F) brine (rich in salt and mine- misting area, keeps you breathing cising in a salt water pool easier rals) with a mild salt concentration freely and is therapeutic for the and healthier. Such exercises are of ca 1.5 %, a fresh water pool, bronchial tubes. In addition to far more effective in the long term spacious relaxation areas both two smaller graduation towers, than those in normal water: they indoors and out, solariums and the Kurpark (Spa Gardens) is also improve patients‘ mobility and regular aqua gymnastics courses home to another unique feature: reduce pain stimuli. are the perfect way to unwind and the brine nebuliser which gene- revitalise. rates a fine mist of fog. GET FIT WITH BRINE BATHING Brine baths affect the entire body The salt water comes from a Everyday problems are soon and psyche. Baths relieve stress, spring 500 m underground and is forgotten when visitors sit back alleviate pain and help treat skin piped to the baths from the Sali- and relax at the mist fountain, the conditions. In particular, they nental (Saline Valley). Spa doctors focal point of this pleasant and in- eliminate itchiness. The salt water have found the spa treatments to viting spot. The salt mineral water suppresses the skin’s reaction to be useful in fighting rheumatic is introduced deep into respiratory irritations and inflammation. The diseases, allergies and bronchial airways, inhaled in its pure form salt content of the thermal baths asthma. or medicinally controlled through acts as a passive training stimulus equipment. on the body and gently stimulates Regular visits to thermal baths circulation. The salt water purifies are also an excellent preventive In the adjoining Crucenia Health the skin. Water is drawn out of the measure. Periodic saltwater Center, brine baths can be taken in cell tissue and flows through the baths boost your circulation and the thermal baths or in tubs with tissue, pleasantly cleansing the strengthen the immune system. bath essences. skin.

15 HEALTH & WELLBEING Breathe in the healthy air in Dead Sea salt grotto

THE DEAD SEA IS JUST AROUND Absolute relaxation: THE CORNER – OR AT LEAST the Bath House 17.5 TONS OF SALT FROM JORDAN’S DEAD SEA. A VISIT TO THE BÄDERHAUS (BATH HOUSE) – SURELY ONE OF 12,000 bricks formed from 100 % GERMANY’S MOST STUNNING pure Dead Sea salt (and nothing CENTERS – IS A HOLIDAY else) were used to build the sea IN ITSELF. salt grotto, which is connected to Bad Kreuznach’s thermal baths, The magnificent classical exterior the Crucenia Thermen. The warm is a taste of what awaits visitors dry air in the grotto, containing 21 inside: absolute relaxation. minerals and the meditating light work together to create a healthy , salt water pools, a large and pleasurable experience. pool with waterfall, an ice grotto, a restaurant and extensive areas Pure ionized air in the salt grotto, to rest and relax … all of these in combination with relaxing mu- make up a 4,000 m oasis of tran- sic and gentle lighting, is a boost quility where time seems to stand to your overall health. The air in still. the Dead Sea salt grotto benefits those suffering from lung, bron- chial, heart and vascular diseases, digestive disorders, skin diseases. ›› INFORMATION: AMAZING BREEZE OF The natural therapy and the atmo- SEA AIR FROM EASTER TO LATE AUTUMN sphere in the grotto are also popu- Salt water diffusion at the gradua- lar among families with children, tion towers ends every year in especially children suffering from November due to the frost risk. The inhalatorium is back in operation by respiratory diseases. Easter (early April).

17 SIGHTSEEING

Museums variety of exhibitions in historic knight’s manor

Reconstruction of paintings in the Roman Hall Hunter’s room in the Castlepark Museum

WHERE NOW THE BAD KREUZ- NACH ENSEMBLE OF MUSEUMS AND THE CASTLE GROUNDS ARE LOCATED IN THE MIDDLE AGES WAS A LARGE ESTATE: THE ESTATE JUST OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS BANGERT, BELOW THE KAU- ZENBERGS WITH KAUZENBURG CASTLE.

On the spot, where now Bad Kreuznach’s trio of museums and castle grounds are located, was formerly a large knight’s manor back in the Middle Ages. The Bangert Manor was located just outside the town walls below the Kauzenburg Castle. Integrated in the beautiful Schloß- The museums offer many rarities park (Castle Park) since 1988, is and are worthwhile to explore: a delightful mixture of scenic The Castle Park Museum , Museum beauty and cultural gems. The of Puppetry Culture, or PuK, and park itself is well-deserved of the Roman Hall / offer name of museum as it is a natural visitors a diverse cultural heritage exhibition of exotic flora in the from antiquity to modern times. truest sense of the word.

Gladiator floor – 3th Century aC. 19 SIGHTSEEING

Römerhalle – precious remains City, history, of Roman times art and more

IN RUSTIC AMBIENCE, THE THE SCHLOSSPARKMUSEUM RÖMERHALLE (ROMAN HALL) (CASTLE PARK MUSEUM), FOR- SHOWCASES ROMAN ARTIFACTS MERLY THE MANSION OF THE FROM A ROMAN-ERA KREUZNACH BANGERT MANOR, WITH MANY AND THE SURROUNDING ELEMENTS OF ITS 19TH CENTURY Marionette “Mephisto” VICINITY. INTERIOR STILL WELL PRESERVED, NOW HOUSES TOWN AND ART Two outstanding works are a pair HISTORY COLLECTIONS. of mosaic floors immediately adjacent to the hall in a Roman pe- One focus of the town history is Museum of ristyle villa dating back to the 3rd the history of the Bangert Manor Puppetry Culture century AD. Only the remnants of itself and its owners in relation to foundation walls are what remain the town of Kreuznach. On display EXPERIENCE THE WORLD OF of a once a magnificent mansion is the transformation from free PUPPETRY with over 5,000 square meters of aristocratic manor to ceremonial interior space, with more than fif- show of the upper classes The Museum für Puppen- ty rooms on the ground floor alo- around the turn of the 19th cen- theaterKultur (Museum of Puppe- ne. Remnants of stucco moldings, tury. try Culture), or PuK, unique exhibi- reliefs and wall paintings tion brings the history of puppet give an impression of the former Another important aspect on theater to life. glorious interiors. display is depictions of the of the 1900s, at a time when More than 2,500 unique, artful The gladiator mosaic, depicted on Kreuznach was one of the leading figures comprise this collection. the museum’s program cover, with spas resort. Their goal is to introduce and floor heating still intact, shows guide the visitor through this scenes of animal and gladiator Particularly interesting are the unique art form using puppet sets, fights dramatized in progressing sculptures of Bad Kreuznach’s theatrical images and motifs. One intensity. Cauer family. Starting with the can also learn about the artists Biedermeier-genre depictions behind the scenes – the puppet The Oceanus mosaic was found from Emil Cauer (1800–1867), builder, the puppeteer and theater in the central ceremonial hall of the eldest Cauer, this collection maker. the villa. Depicted in the apse is spans the many artistic creations this dominating depiction of the of the Cauer generations to follow The exhibition spans the traveling od of the sea, whose dominion is and shows the variety of artistic theaters of the 19th century, later symbolized by a variety of lovingly forms they were involved with: the permanent puppet stages, and illustrated sea creatures, as well as small-scale genre sculptures, ending with the television pup- a Mediterranean coastal lands- portrait busts, tomb sculptures, ›› INFORMATION: pet stars of today. The museum cape with architecture and scenic monuments in public spaces, art CONTACT & OPENING TIMES takes one through the diversity depictions of ships and merchants. in architecture. of performance styles, puppet Dessauer Str., 55545 Bad Kreuznach Phone +49 671 920-777 characters and theatrical material The exhibitions also cover other A collection of drawings, water- [email protected] for all ages. aspects of Romanization and the colors and paintings, portraying Roman way of life, showing for views of the town and the regi- March to January: In addition to the permanent exhi- example, ancient glassware and on from the 19th and early 20th Tuesday 10.00 am–01.00 pm bition, PuK has also made a name artifacts of pagan cults. century, provides a glimpse of old Wednesday–Friday 10.00 am–04.00 pm Saturday & Sunday 11.00 am–05.00 pm for itself by offering constant Kreuznach and the natural beauty Closed on Mondays. February closed. changing exhibitions. of the region.

21 SIGHTSEEING

Town walk the mid-19th century, the dilapida- ted eastern chancel was converted into a chapel to hold Anglican services for the numerous English visitors to the resort town. Tombs- THE BRIDGE HOUSES AND THE tone effigies from the late Middle OLD NAHE BRIDGE ST. PAUL’S CHURCH AND Ages can be seen in the Paulus- Due to a shortage of land, the THE ENGLISH CHAPEL kapelle (Paul’s Chapel). Brückenhäuser (Bridge Houses), Pauluskirche (St. Paul’s Church), architectural gems and landmarks now Protestant, is a gothic buil- Both the church’s organ, restored of Bad Kreuznach, were built star- ding with a three-naved . in 2012, and the choir concerts ting in 1480. The half-timbered It was built as the parish church are definitely worth hearing (and buildings, erected on the pilings for Johann of . seeing). The building is the largest of the Alte Nahebrücke (Old Nahe Originally consecrated in 1332 as church between Mainz and . Bridge) was built around 1300 and Church of the Blessed Mary and Incidentally, and Jenny joins the Altstadt (Old Town) with , St. Paul’s became von Westphalen married here on the Neustadt (New Town). Their Protestant in 1558. In 1689, it was the 19th of June 1843. striking silhouettes have been a destroyed by the troops of King famous feature of the town for Louis XIV of France. It underwent KAUZENBURG CASTLE centuries. major reconstruction in 1781 and Overlooking the Neustadt (New has since largely retained its 18th Town) and spa district is the The Old Nahe Bridge was the century form. Kauzenburg (Owl Castle), built by intersecting point of two major the of Sponheim in the roads, while also serving as part The church stands on an island early 13th century. The historic of the circular town wall. Built between the Nahe and the Müh- New Town grew around the castle on eight pilings, it crosses both lenkanal (Mill Canal). For many perimeter and housed many of arms of the Nahe River which centuries it was the only building the Burgmannen, members of the run through the town: the Nahe in the town on the other side of lower nobility who defended the itself and the Mühlenkanal (Mill the Alte Nahebrücke (Old Nahe castle. A large wall surrounded the Canal). Only the section over the Bridge) – beyond it were only pa- castle and New Town until the 19th Mill Canal retains its historic piling stures. The 61-meter-high baroque century and is still partly visible bridge form. tower was erected around 1780. In today.

“Old Nahe Bridge” 23 SIGHTSEEING

›› INFORMATIONS: BAD KREUZNACH ON DVD

Wellbeing, spa, gardens and the historical part of the city are the main theme of the DVD Unsere An- sichten werden Ihnen gefallen (8 minutes running time; Geman / English / French version).

The armies of King Louis XIV de- the historic look, resulting in an stroyed the castle in 1689. It was attractive architectural harmony. altered and rebuilt a number of Michel Mort saved his lord, the The Ellerbach flows through the Kurhaus is still the town’s largest times before finally being restored Count of Sponheim, in the Battle historic New Town and was used with 125 rooms and 200 to its current form in 1972. of in 1279. Sculptor for many centuries as a waste The Carmelite grammar school beds. Robert Cauer created the statue in channel by tanners, butchers and was the only school in the town The Kauzenburg is now a restau- 1902. Robert Cauer was a young local residents. People built right during the Middle Ages. Magister International spa business and rant with a magnificent panora- member of the internationally up to the banks and even across Georg Sabellicus Faust, the histori- are not the only aspects mic view. Visitors can take part in successful Cauer dynasty of sculp- the Ellerbach at some points. cal figure on which Goethe’s Faust of Kurhaus past: it has also been a Rittermahl (knight’s banquette), tors who had lived and worked in was based, is supposed to have the scene of historic events. In a truly unique culinary experience Bad Kreuznach for over 200 years. ST. NICHOLAS CHURCH: THE taught there in 1507. 1917, during the First World War, in a vaulted cellar. Internationally renowned, the TOWN’S OLDEST CHURCH the German General Staff had its Cauers also operated ateliers in a The Nikolauskirche (St. Nicholas SPA HOTEL AND GARDENS headquarters here under Generals EGG MARKET IN THE number of major European . Church) on Eiermarkt (Egg Market) The spa business began to boom and Erich HISTORIC OLD TOWN is Bad Kreuznach’s oldest surviving after Bad Kreuznach became in- Ludendorff. The romantic Eiermarkt (Egg “LITTLE VENICE” place of worship and is still used ternationally renowned, following Market or Square) was for centu- ON THE ELLER BROOK as a church by the Catholic com- the discovery of radon therapy in The “Atatürk Salon” commemo- ries the center of the Old Town, Klein-Venedig (Little Venice) munity today. 1904. This led to the construction rates a visit paid to Kaiser Wilhelm and was where the fruit, fish and refers to a row of houses along in 1913 of a magnificent hotel II by Mustafa Kemal Pascha Ata- potters’ markets were held. No either side of the Ellerbach (Eller Built in 1266, St. Nicholas was complex with four wings to re- türk, who later founded the state other square in the town has quite Brook) delta, where it flows originally attached to a Carmelite place the old Kurhaus (Spa Hotel) of . the historic flair, with its Niko- into the Nahe. It offers visitors monastery until the Reforma- from 1843. lauskirche (St. Nicholas Church), a picturesque collection of rear tion in the mid-16th century. Of and Konrad Ade- half-timbered houses and the façades. particular interest is the interior, Designed by Emanuel von Seidl, nauer met in the Kurhaus in 1958 narrow alleys of the Metzgerviertel with ornate carved pews, tombs- the new hotel was inspired by to prepare the way for Franco- (Butcher District). During the Middle Ages, a lack tones with effigies of counts and baroque such as the German partnership, and in 1984 of space forced people to even knights, wooden sculptures from Würzburg Residence. It is most the hotel welcomed the French In the center of the square build on the town wall itself. New the 15th century and the unique, impressive when seen from the President, François Mitterand, stands a sculpture showing how homes have recently been built 140-cm-high cross reliquary da- Kurpark (Spa Gardens). Pillars mark while he was on a state visit to the Kreuznach’s master butcher respecting and incorporating ting back to 1501. the striking central pavilion. The German Chancellor Helmut Kohl.

25 SIGHTSEEING

THE SPA GARDENS – THE CENTER OF BAD KREUZNACH’S SPA DISTRICT. The Spa Gardens, or Kurpark, bet- ween the Nahe River and Müh- ROSE ISLAND – lenkanal (Mill Canal) have been THE JEWEL OF THE NAHE the center of social life in resort Roseninsel (Rose Island) owes its town of Bad Kreuznach for over charm to its location. As early as 150 years. They were created after 1905, this small island in the Nahe the town tapped the salt mineral was turned into a park for a major springs here. PANORAMA WALK – SCENIC rose exhibition. Its current layout VIEWS OF THE SPA DISTRICT is the result of an inspired combi- A wonderful park with lawns, Anyone looking to discover the nation of landscape architecture flowerbeds and towering trees town on foot should check out the and flood protection. stretches from the wine pavilion Panoramaweg (Panoramic Way) at the Elisabethquelle (Elisabeth which is easy to get to just off the The Nahe is not always as calm Spring) – people came for years to pedestrian zone. One minute you and gentle as it appears. A few THE WORLD’S LARGEST OPEN-AIR good for you. Inhale the salty mist drink the saline water – and the are in the hustle and bustle of weeks per year it can turn into a SALT INHALATORIUM: SALINE and you inhale tiny droplets deep extensive grounds of the Kurhaus the narrow streets, the next in a raging torrent, threatening to put VALLEY AND SALT GRADUATION into the air. Thanks to a misting into your bronchial tubes. These Hotel. It is the wonderful old trees haven of peace and tranquility. the town under water. Taking a WORKS surface of over 8,000 m, the droplets are anti-inflammatory and the surrounding landscape stroll on Rose Island you’ll disco- Saline extraction from salt mineral graduation towers create a fresh and loosen phlegm. which make the park so distinc- Just below the Kauzenburg castle, ver an inviting terrace, a pergola springs is what gave the Salinental microclimate similar to that of a tive. It is surrounded by water, and the route takes you from the leading to a historic fountain, (Saline Valley) in Bad Kreuznach seaside town. Brine bathing in the thermal baths a stroll along the promenade to medieval Altstadt (Old Town) high plush lawns, shady groves, rose its name. One impressive feature improves circulation, stimulates the salt mineral springs inhalation up above the rooftops of the spa beds and a playground. An inviting of the area is its towering gradua- The graduation towers were used the metabolism and harmonizes park offers amazing views of the district and along the Nahe River promenade offers the perfect way tion works. These 10-meter-high for salt extraction until 1999. Due the vegetative nervous system. It’s Nahe River and valley. A path lined between hill, town and river. Expe- to discover and experience the wooden walls are covered on both to its health-giving properties, good for both skin and respiratory with chestnut trees runs along the rience the green spa resort at its beauty of the river. Rose Island is sides with blackthorn branches, the salt water is still used in the airways. Rheumatic diseases, skin Mühlenkanal (Mill Canal) – a cool best from a variety of vista points. home to a number of works of art. making a total length of 1.1 km. spa towns of Bad Kreuznach and problems and bronchial asthma and quiet spot even on the hottest The most impressive is the Durst- Bad Münster am Stein-Ebernburg. are the main areas of applica- of summer days. Music and dance The route starts in the Klappergas- gruppe (Thirst Group) sculpture Salt water, or brine, trickles down Brine, with a table salt content tion, but brine baths are also lovers meet here for concerts se (Klapper Alley) at the Old Town showing two British soldiers in the the walls of blackthorn, each of 1.5% as well as many valuable excellent as a preventive therapy under the trees – the park has its side of the Alte Nahebrücke (Old Boer War fighting over a drop of droplet forming thousands more. minerals, springs from a depth of by strengthening the immune own dance floor and bandstand. Nahe Bridge). water. High evaporation also releases salt 500 m. Just breathing this air is system.

27 SIGHTSEEING

›› INFORMATION

Tourist-Information Office Bad Münster am Stein-Ebernburg

Berliner Strasse 68 55583 Bad Kreuznach

Tel. +49 6708 641780 [email protected] www.bad-muenster-am-stein.de

Up high on the rocky peaks of the almost 400 years, and the castle Rheingrafenstein, looking out over played a prominent role during the Kurhaus, lie the ruins of Schloss the period of the . At FOR VISITORS TO BAD KREUZ- Rheingrafenstein (Rheingrafen- the foot of the castle lies the villa- NACH, A TRIP TO BAD MÜNSTER stein Castle), which is also worth ge of Ebernburg. Its narrow streets AM STEIN-EBERNBURG IS AN a visit. A hand-pulled ferry takes are home to numerous wine bars, ABSOLUTE MUST. walkers across the Nahe river. A where exquisite Nahe wines can 30-minute climb up the path lea- be enjoyed in the historical am- This part of town is set amidst ding to the castle is rewarded by bience of a winery. wildly romantic countryside. Over a stunning panoramic view of the a period of many thousands of Nahe Valley. The Steinskulpturenpark (Stone years, the Nahe river has cut its Sculpture Park) and its museum Simply idyllic … way through solid volcanic rock, The particular biodiversity of this (architect: Tadao Ando) are a and impressive rock faces rise up landscape with its warm and dry, further highlight. Stone sculptures on both sides. The Rotenfels (Red virtually Mediterranean climate made by the Kubach-Wilmsen Rock) is the highest vertical rock can be seen in the nature station family, internationally renowned wall in Central Europe north of the at the Kurhaus, where exhibits sculptors, are positioned in the . include the extremely rare (and fascinating rock landscape to form completely harmless) dice sna- a complete artwork. Hiking trails and cycle tracks ke, which lives in the Nahe river provide opportunities to explore valley. One of Germany’s most attractive this magnificent landscape. Yet golf courses lies just outside the the town also has a lot to offer. The Ebernburg (Ebernburg Castle) in wooded, hilly coun- Salt water springs have made Bad bears witness to a great past. The tryside. Guests are always very Münster a popular spa resort. Knights of Sickingen lived here for welcome. The historic 100-year-old Kurhaus (Assembly Rooms erected over three mineral springs) with its combination of half-timbering and Jugendstil is set in the Kurpark (Spa Gardens) and ranks among the most beautiful buildings of its kind in Germany.

Here, guests can enjoy the so- othing effects of the medicinal water from the Rheingrafenquelle Bad Münster am (Rheingrafen Spring). A 150-me- tre long saline graduation tower forms a large outdoor inhalatori- Stein-Ebernburg um. GUIDED TOURS OF THE TOWN TOURS OF THE GUIDED

›› INFORMATION & BOOKING

Tourist-Information Bad Kreuznach Haus des Gastes THE VIA HISTORICA: Kurhausstrasse 22–24 FROM BADEWÖRTH ISLAND TO 55543 Bad Kreuznach THE RÖMERHALLE Tel. +49 671 8360050 Guided Tours [email protected] The tour starts at the BÄDER- HAUS (Bath House) and takes Tourist-Information Bad Münster you along the Mühlenteich (Mill am Stein-Ebernburg Canal), down Germany’s oldest Berliner Strasse 68 (English) sycamore-lined avenue and past 55583 Bad Kreuznach the unmistakable Bad Kreuznach Tel. +49 6708 641780 Brückenhäuser (Bridge Houses). It [email protected] continues on through the historic Altstadt (Old Town) and Schloß- park (Castle Park), a landscaped park of exotic trees and pic- turesque pond, and ending at the Römerhalle (Roman Hall) museum. BOAT EXCURSIONS ON THE Salinental: the saline valley 1,800 years ago the stately villa NAHE RIVER ca. 1.5 to 2 hours | € 72.00 per of a wealthy Roman stood here. See the spa district via an old group (EN: € 90.00) Today the museum brings the fishing boat cruise down the Nahe Roman era along the Nahe back to River and the Mühlenteich (Mill Bad Kreuznach’s “Canal Grande”: life. A wide and varied range of ex- Canal). Experience the town from boat trip along Mühlenkanal hibits on everyday life and religion the river with a tour guide on (Mill Canal) give an insight into the luxury in board. ca. 1–2 hours | € 170.00 per group which the villa’s inhabitants lived. This tour is also available with a wine tasting and snacks. Crucenia Express Blauer Klaus ONE TOWN WITH MANY FACES: Take a guided tour for groups, BAD KREUZNACH YESTERDAY clubs, etc. on the tourist trolley, AND TODAY “Blauer Klaus”. There are 2 routes: Bad Kreuznach’s charm lies in Parks, museums, 1. Bad Kreuznach /Salinental its mix of modern town, natural nature – list of tours 2. Bad Münster am Stein-Ebern- beauty and historical flair. This burg / Salinental. guided tour of the town starts at The following guided tours of the Each trip lasts ca. 1 hour. Simply the BÄDERHAUS and takes you town, for up to 25 people are of- contact our team for more infor- from the spa district into the Alt- fered throughout the year and can mation. stadt. Discover the diversity of this be booked at the Tourist Informa- Prices for special trips: Mo–Fr fascinating town. tion center. € 270.00 plus VAT, on Sa, Su and public holidays € 330.00 plus VAT. SALINENTAL: THE SALINE VALLEY Certain tours can also be booked The Blauer Klaus can carry up to Salinental, with its colossal gradu- with English or French speaking 60 people. Bus parking is available ation towers, is a salt production guides: close to the stop in the Badeallee. area and a wellbeing landscape ble close to the stop in Badeallee. in one. A refreshing sea breeze Guided tour of the Altstadt Booking and information: still gently blows, where, for 200 (Old Town): (Tall) tales, parks and www.blauer-klaus.de years, salt was once extracted medieval streets from salt mineral springs for food ca. 1.5 hours | € 72.00 per group ›› IMPRINT and medicine. Winding through (EN / F: € 90.00) breathtaking scenery, the 90-mi- Gesundheit und Tourismus nute walk is a journey of discovery Guided tour of the Altstadt für Bad Kreuznach GmbH Kurhausstrasse 22–24 through the fascinating history of (Old Town) and historic Neustadt 55543 Bad Kreuznach salt extraction. Those who wish (New Town) Tel. +49 671 83600-50 / -51 can go up and out onto the top of ca. 1.5 hours | € 72.00 per group [email protected] one of the graduation towers. (EN / F: € 90.00) Photos: Gesundheit und Tourismus für Bad Kreuznach GmbH, Verkehrsverein Rheingrafenstein, Dominik Ketz, pinkiwi, Matthias Luhn 31 CONTACT THE TOURIST INFORMATION IN THE HAUS DES GASTES (HOUSE OF THE GUEST) Kurhausstrasse 22–24 55543 Bad Kreuznach, GERMANY April–October: Monday–Friday 09.00 am–05.00 pm Saturday 09.00 am–04.00 pm Sunday 09.00 am–03.00 pm November–March: Monday–Friday 09.00 am–04.00 pm Contact us by telephone +49 671 8360050 Send us an inquiry to the email address [email protected]

You can reach our city By train: Regional express trains (RE line 3) main station–Frankfurt International Airport–Mainz–Idar- Oberstein–Saarbrücken depart daily every hour from Mainz or every 2 hours directly from Frankfurt (journey time of Mainz–Bad Kreuznach 26–29 min). Regional trains (RB line 33) Mainz–Bad Kreuznach–Idar-Oberstein–Türkismühle every hour to ensure that about every 30 minutes there is a link to Bad Kreuznach. In Frankfurt and Mainz are good connections to the remote traffic. The regional train (line 65) –Bad Kreuznach–Bingen provides daily every hour in Bingen (IC ) and Kaiserslautern (ICE F-) is well connected to through traffic. Travelling with the Rhine- Nahe-transport: Buses and trains from Mainz to Idar-Ober- Bad Kreuznach in Europe stein are summarized in the Rhine-Nahe-transport network. This includes the bus in Bad Kreuznach. Information about connections, timetables and prices at www.rnn.info. By car: From the north and east (Mainz, ): A 61 mo- torway Nahetal, A 60, exit at Bad Kreuznach From the south (): A 60, exit at Bad Kreuznach From the west (Idar-Oberstein): B 41 In all cases, is recommended as a city entrance of the B 41 from the exit Winzenheim, from there, towards the town of Bad Kreuznach. By airplane: From Frankfurt Rhein-Main airport is a direct link with the Regional Express RE 3 every 2 hours (journey time 47 min) or with a change in Mainz or Ingelheim hour (journey time 60 minutes). From the airport Frankfurt-Hahn in the Hunsrück an airport shuttle runs with 11–13 runs per day to Mainz main station, where migration to regional ex- press or regional train to Bad Kreuznach. Other bus services, with a change of Idar-Oberstein, and . For more information on airport arrival and departure, please visit: bahn.com, rnn.de, frankfurt-airport.com and hahn-airport.de.