Alsfeld: The Complete Guide

Alsfeld Town Hall And Southern Side Of The Marketplace
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Mylius

Alsfeld is a town located in the Vogelsbergkreis district of the state of Hesse, Germany. It has a population of approximately 17,000 people and covers an area of 76.84 square kilometers.

Alsfeld has a long and rich history, dating back to the early Middle Ages. The town was first mentioned in historical records in the year 1069, and has since then developed into an important center of trade and commerce. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Alsfeld became known for its flourishing cloth industry, which brought great prosperity to the town.

One of the most notable features of Alsfeld is its well-preserved historic town center, which has been designated as a protected historic monument. The town’s many half-timbered houses, which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, give it a charming and picturesque atmosphere. Some of the most famous buildings in Alsfeld include the town hall, the Alte Kanzlei (Old Chancellery), and the Walpurgiskirche (St. Walpurga’s Church).

In addition to its historic buildings, Alsfeld is also known for its annual Alsfelder Märchen- und Sagenfest (Alsfeld Fairy Tale and Legend Festival), which takes place every September. The festival celebrates the town’s connection to the Brothers Grimm and their collection of fairy tales, many of which are set in the surrounding area.

In the world of fairy tales, Little Red Riding Hood plays a special role in Alsfeld. It is said that the Brothers Grimm were inspired by the traditional costume of Schwalm with its red cap.

Today, Alsfeld is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over Germany and beyond. It is also an important center of commerce and industry, with a thriving economy and a strong sense of community.

History of Alsfeld

Early History of Alsfeld

Alsfeld, a town in the state of Hesse, Germany, has roots that trace back to the early Middle Ages. The first documented mention of Alsfeld dates to 1069, although the area was likely settled much earlier due to its advantageous location along trade routes. Its position at the intersection of significant roads facilitated its growth as a trading hub.

Alsfeld in the Middle Ages

The town flourished during the medieval period, gaining market rights in 1222, which significantly boosted its economy and development. In the 13th and 14th centuries, Alsfeld experienced a building boom, resulting in many of the half-timbered houses and other structures that define its charming appearance today. The town’s fortifications, including its walls and towers, were also constructed during this time.

The Renaissance and Alsfeld

Alsfeld continued to thrive in the Renaissance period. In the early 16th century, the town hall, one of Alsfeld’s most iconic buildings, was constructed. This era also saw the town becoming a center for arts and culture, influenced by the broader Renaissance movement sweeping through Europe. The architecture from this period, characterized by its detailed woodwork and ornamentation, still stands as a testament to Alsfeld’s prosperity during these years.

Reformation and the Thirty Years’ War

The Reformation brought significant changes to Alsfeld in the 16th century. The town became predominantly Protestant, aligning with the broader religious transformations occurring in Germany. The Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648) brought hardship to Alsfeld, as it did to many parts of Europe. The town suffered from military occupation, plundering, and economic decline.

19th Century and Industrialization in Alsfeld

The 19th century saw Alsfeld adapting to the changes brought by industrialization. While it retained much of its medieval charm, new industries and transportation links, such as the railway, began to integrate the town more closely with the broader economic developments of Germany. This period also saw efforts to preserve Alsfeld’s historical buildings, recognizing their cultural and architectural value.

Alsfeld in the 20th Century

Alsfeld faced challenges during the 20th century, including the impacts of both World Wars. However, it managed to preserve its historical heritage through dedicated restoration efforts. After World War II, Alsfeld became part of the state of Hesse in West Germany. The town’s picturesque old town, with its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings, attracted tourists and helped boost the local economy.

Alsfeld Today

Today, Alsfeld is celebrated for its historical architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The town’s commitment to preserving its heritage has made it a popular destination for visitors interested in history, architecture, and traditional German culture. Alsfeld’s old town, with its narrow streets and charming buildings, stands as a living museum, showcasing centuries of architectural and historical evolution.

Visiting Alsfeld for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Alsfeld on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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11 Best places to See in Alsfeld

This complete guide to Alsfeld not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Alsfeld and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Schwälmer Brunnen

Schwälmer Brunnen
©
Schwalmer Brunnen, also known as the The Little Red Riding Hood statue is an ornamental fountain in Alsfeld, in northern Hesse. The Schwalm fountain was built in 1958 to show the connection between the town of Alsfeld and the traditional costumes of the Schwalm. The fountain shows the Gänseliesel in typical Schwalm costume with the […]
Visiting Schwälmer Brunnen

Explore Alsfeld yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Weinhaus (Wine House)

Weinhaus Wine House
CC BY-SA 3.0 / KlausFoehl
Started in 1538 by Hans von Frankfurt, the wine house served to store and serve wine and was therefore a municipal privilege. Transitional forms between Gothic and Renaissance can be clearly seen in the steep stepped gables with fan rosettes. The originally unevenly arranged charming “curtain arch windows” were replaced by round arch windows in […]
Visiting Weinhaus (Wine House)

Walpurgiskirche

Alsfeld Walpurgiskirche
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Oliver Abels (SBT)
Municipal main church with a complicated building history, which is reflected both in the interior design and in the exterior structure. The oldest existed in the form of a small 3-apse basilica, proven by the uncovering of the foundations in 1971/72. In the late 13th century, an early Gothic basilica with a stretched but low […]
Location: Walpurgiskirche (Stadtkirche) - Evangelische-luth. Kirchengemeinde Alsfeld, Kirchplatz, Alsfeld, Germany | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Walpurgiskirche

Alsfeld Town Hall

Alsfeld Town Hall
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007
The Town Hall was constructed in medieval, Rähmbau style timber framing between 1512 and 1516. This is one of the most important German half-timbered town hall buildings. Erected over a late Gothic stone substructure, this building with its attractive woodwork, bent chevron bracing and protruding moulded beam-ends, is an outstanding example of a “Rähmbau” (frame […]
Visiting Alsfeld Town Hall

Regional Museum Alsfeld

Regional Museum Alsfeld
CC BY-SA 3.0 / KlausFoehl
The Alsfeld City Museum, also known as the Regional Museum Alsfeld, is located in a half-timbered building in the historic old town of Alsfeld, Germany. The museum showcases the cultural history and development of the city of Alsfeld and the surrounding region. The museum has several permanent exhibitions that cover various topics, including the history […]
Location: Geschichts- und Museumsverein Alsfeld e.V. Rittergasse 3-5 36304 Alsfeld Germany | Hours: Mon – Fri 10 a.m. to 4 p.m Sat 10 a.m. to 4 p.m Closed on Sundays and public holidays | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Regional Museum Alsfeld

Neurathhaus, Alsfeld

Alsfeld Neurathhaus
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mylius
Neurathhaus is a historic half-timbered house located in the town of Alsfeld in the state of Hesse, Germany. It was built in 1619 by a wealthy cloth merchant named Johannes Neurath and is one of the most well-preserved half-timbered houses in the town. The building features a striking façade with ornate carvings and a distinctive […]
Location: Neurathhaus, Rittergasse, Alsfeld, Germany | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Neurathhaus, Alsfeld

Beinhaus, Alsfeld

Beinhaus (Alsfeld)
CC BY-SA 3.0 / KlausFoehl
Late Gothic Chapel originally built in 1368 and reconstructed in 1510, on the north side of the churchyard. Later used for preserving the skeletons from the surrounding cemetery. (The cemetery was too small to cope with the number of deaths in the 30 Year War and the various plagues.) The chapel was later misused for […]
Location: Beinhaus, Kaplaneigasse, Alsfeld, Germany | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Beinhaus, Alsfeld

Alsfeld Fairy Tale House

Alsfeld Fairy Tale House
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007
The Alsfeld Fairy Tale House (German: Märchenhaus) is a historic half-timbered house located in Alsfeld, Germany. The building was constructed in 1628 and is notable for its decorative facade, which is covered in intricate carvings and paintings depicting scenes from fairy tales, such as Little Red Riding Hood, Sleeping Beauty, and Hansel and Gretel. The […]
Location: Sackgasse 2, 36304 Alsfeld, Deutschland | Hours: Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Sundays from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Price: Adults € 3.00, Children € 2.00 | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Alsfeld Fairy Tale House

Leonhardsturm, Alsfeld

Alsfeld Untere Fulder Gasse
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ymblanter
Leonhardsturm or Leonard’s Tower is the last remaining Tower of the city’s defences. A rounded tower with cone and battlement crest, it is 27 meters high. Entrance was from the city wall, through a doorway half way up the tower. At the base of the tower was the dungeon, which was used for holding prisoners […]
Location: Leonhardsturm, Alsfeld | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Leonhardsturm, Alsfeld

Grabbrunnen, Alsfeld

Grabbrunnen, Alsfeld2
CC BY-SA 3.0 / KlausFoehl
The Grabbrunnen is a square named after the fountain of the same name in Alsfeld’s old town. This well was used for dyeing cloth. According to legend, storks from the ‘Storks’ Nest’ flew to the well to collect the babies and deliver them to the families who had ordered them. The old well base has […]
Location: Grabbrunnen, Alsfeld, Germany | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Grabbrunnen, Alsfeld

Dreifaltigkeitskirche (Trinity Church)

Alsfeld, Dreifaltigkeitskirche
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007
Built in the second half of the 14th century, the Dreifaltigkeitskirche, or Trinity Church, originally served as a monastery church for the Augustine hermits. The church features a long choir for the clergy and, around 1435, an asymmetrical hall was added with naves and side aisles. Since the monks belonged to a begging order, there […]
Location: Dreifaltigkeitskirche - Evangelische-luth. Kirchengemeinde Alsfeld, Roßmarkt, Alsfeld, Germany | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Dreifaltigkeitskirche (Trinity Church)

Best Time to Visit Alsfeld

Visiting Alsfeld in Spring

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Alsfeld. The town comes alive with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, making it perfect for exploring the picturesque old town and its historic buildings. The mild temperatures and pleasant weather provide an ideal setting for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Visiting Alsfeld in Summer

Summer in Alsfeld offers warm weather and long daylight hours, perfect for enjoying the town’s numerous festivals and outdoor events. The lively atmosphere and bustling streets make it an exciting time to explore the local culture. Additionally, the surrounding countryside is ideal for hiking and other outdoor adventures.

Visiting Alsfeld in Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and a stunning display of fall foliage to Alsfeld. The town’s historic architecture looks particularly charming against the backdrop of colorful leaves. This season is perfect for leisurely strolls through the old town, enjoying the crisp air, and experiencing the local harvest festivals.

Visiting Alsfeld in Winter

Winter in Alsfeld is a magical time, especially during the holiday season. The town is adorned with festive decorations, and the Christmas market adds a special charm. The cooler weather creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for exploring museums, enjoying hearty German cuisine, and soaking in the town’s rich history.

Average Temperatures in Alsfeld

  • January 6°C 7
  • February 9°C 7
  • March 13°C 6
  • April 18°C 6
  • May 21°C 8
  • June 25°C 9
  • July 27°C 8
  • August 28°C 9
  • September 24°C 7
  • October 17°C 7
  • November 10°C 7
  • December 8°C 9

How to get to Alsfeld

By Air

To travel to Alsfeld by air, fly into Frankfurt Airport, which is the nearest major airport. From there, you can take a train, bus, or rental car to reach Alsfeld, which is approximately 100 kilometers away.

By Train

Alsfeld is accessible by train, with regular connections from major German cities. You can take a direct train from Frankfurt or other nearby cities to the Alsfeld railway station, conveniently located in the town center.

By Bus

Several bus companies operate routes to Alsfeld from different parts of Germany. Buses from Frankfurt, Kassel, and other nearby cities offer a comfortable and affordable way to reach the town.

By Car

Driving to Alsfeld is a flexible option if you prefer to travel at your own pace. The town is well-connected by road, and you can easily reach it via the A5 motorway from Frankfurt. Renting a car allows you to explore the surrounding region as well.