From Fjords to Fiats

[OZDUCK]

Esslingen is a very pretty little town. We have been there twice. The last time was in Nov. 2023 to visit the Medieval Christmas Market.

 

[RB]

Around Esslingen

Esslingen Germany - travel guide and information from German Sights

We had 3 nights here where we had Aussie mates as company & our main activity was the Cannstatter Volkfest-Stuttgart Beer Festival. Cannstatter Volksfest | Stuttgart Beer Festival Guide
We had previously visited the Munich Oktoberfest so we had an understanding of what to expect but I think our mates were a bit surprised by the physical size of the facility and the size & age structure of the attendees. From our apartment we a short walk then a 15 minute non-stop train ride and then a 10 minute walk with the crowds to the grounds. There was a massive number of carnival type rides, a huge variety of food outlets, some large beer halls and many smaller bar & food outlets. We caught the main parade of the festival with the costumes and wagons and floats saluting the history of the event.
Despite the crowds, food, beverages and seats in the shade were easy to come by and the food we had was excellent. Prices food and drinks were consistent with the rest of our stay in the area. The larger tents offered space for us without bookings, the entertainment was ongoing and the crowds seemed well behaved. The costume wearers certainly added to the spirit of the day & it was a great time.

















Before the crowds





Outside view of one of the bigger beer halls










This was loud!

 

[RB]

More of the beer festival

Parts of the very long parade-unfortunately looking into the sun










The objects in mid air are sweets that were thrown into the crowd from the parade


Plenty of options for the thrill seekers










A couple of unpaid product endorsements

 

[RB]

The rest of our time in Esslingen was spent wandering the streets and taking in the historic buildings. The half timber-framed houses and other historic buildings in the medieval town, the city wall and towers and the vineyards around the city are all interesting attractions to explore on foot.

Taken from the front door of apartment building


Weather station constructed in 1895


Medieval Gate House from 13th Century-very popular ice cream joint now operates from the base


External view of our apartment building-commercial enterprises downstairs

Twin steeples & connecting bridge St Dionys. Towers completed between 1290 and 1308







The high altar dates from around 1604


Originally a historic court & tithe barn but has housed Kessler Sekt cellar since the 19th century


The stone fountain from around 1904 replaced an earlier well


This was taken from the old market square, plenty of updating happening


Another view with different sun aspect


Originally constructed around 1760 as the Palais of the von Palm family (Palm’sches Palais), the Baroque-style building has served as the official seat of Esslingen's Lord Mayor and municipal administration since 1850

 

[RB]

Last of Esslingen
Still in the Old Town


Puppet display








Getting closer to the Church of Our Lady-locked unfortunately




Quirky plant decoration


Covered wooden & stone staircase leading to the castle-we conceded defeat after a while. Apparently 332 stairs in total


Back in the Old Square-dates from the 15th Century


Grabbed a cold beer & wine to go with nice food from Asia-Kim