Jagst Landscape and Limes
Widdern combines the unspoilt Jagst landscape with traces of railway and Roman history. The landscape is characterised by a diverse range of flora and fauna. Widdern is also part of the Upper Germanic Limes, which is 550 km long in total. It once formed the border of the Roman Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This gives you a choice of different focuses for your trip: the natural landscape, the history of the Jagst Valley Railway and Roman history at the Limes.
The Jagst Valley Railway at the Old Station
The museum in the old station is dedicated to life with the Jagst Valley Railway. Since its ceremonial opening in 2014, it has housed a permanent exhibition offering authentic insights into the building’s former use. The brick building itself also tells a story about the railway: it was built at the beginning of the century as a stop for the newly constructed Jagst Valley Railway. The museum has several exhibition rooms and provides a platform for artists and associations. The exhibition and building thus offer two perspectives: the use of the railway and the station’s former function.
The History of Coins at the Limes
Above the Widdern district of Unterkessach, the Limes watchtower displays coins from several eras and traditions. These include coins from the time of the Roman adoptive emperors, from the early days of coin minting in the Mediterranean region, from the Roman Republic, as well as Celtic coins. Those interested in history will find a range of different periods and cultural connections here, rather than a focus on just one period of Roman history. Individually bookable events are available at the watchtower. Options range from guided tours of the Limes to full-evening programmes with a Roman snack; check dates and booking options in advance.
Circular Trails and Historic Stops
The 7 km Widdern-Bannholz Circular Trail is a circular hiking route through Widdern. It passes through woodland, by meadows and fields, and along the Jagst and Kessach rivers. The historic bakehouse is also on the route. Dating from the early 18th century, it was faithfully renovated in 2014 as part of a community project, with the active involvement of dedicated local residents. Its stated length and changing landscape features give the route its own character.
The KJ14 Widdern-ZiegelhĂĽtte-BĂĽhl Circular Trail offers a different historical connection: it passes the Protestant church in Widdern, which was first mentioned in 1258. This gives you a choice of two different points of interest: the Bannholz Circular Trail is described in terms of its route and landscape, while the church is a named historic stop on the KJ14. Check current trail conditions before setting out.
Plan Your Visit and Stay
Performances are regularly held in the old Kaisersaal. The building was once the official residence of the representative of the Bishop of WĂĽrzburg. If you would like to combine your visit with a performance, check the current schedule. Gasthaus Lamm serves Greek food; check its offering before visiting. This lets you choose a destination based on your own interests, without turning the different stops into a fixed itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Nordheim, Bad Rappenau, Untergruppenbach, Bad Wimpfen, Erlenbach, Obersulm, Langenbrettach, Cleebronn
For the main travel overview: Heilbronn.
