Heidelberg Hills

Our quaint, little town of Heidelberg is situated in the Odenwald on the banks of the Neckar river. The Odenwald (pronounced oden-vald) are low mountains that run north-south on the east flank of the Rhine river valley. I would actually call the Odenwald "hills" rather than "mountains". I grew up around "mountains" and I tell you what, the Odenwald ain't no mountains. But far be it for me to take away the claim of some hills that overstretch their reach for mountains. Mountains they say they are, so mountains they will be. Heidelberg is a popular tourist destination due to the Heidelberg  Castle that sits on the hill, I mean mountain, over looking the baroque style Altstadt or in English, old town. 

Here is a view of Heidelberg from the Königsstuhl mountain. That is the Neckar River flowing through the middle.

Evidence of the earliest human life in Europe was discovered here with the uncovering of the remains of a man dated over 200,000 years old. That's one old Heidelberger.

The Heidelberger Schloss or Heidelberg Castle is considered one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. It's earliest section was built in 1214. Most of the castle is in ruins now due to multiple attacks and lightning strikes. The majority of the damage was done in 1689 by the French when they blew up the towers and walls with gunpowder. Le Boom!

Heidelberg is a very hip (for lack of a better word) place. Heidelberg University, the oldest university in Germany, is here and there is definitely a young vibe about town. There are many concert and party posters plastered on signs and poles.

This church with the green spires is Peterskirche or St. Peter's Church located in the Old Town.

Heidelberg can mean 'Mountain of Saints' or 'Mountain of Blueberries'. Either one. You choose.

The US Army is leaving Heidelberg (and us with it) and moving it's operations to Wiesbaden which is 100 kilometers north. The Army has been here since 1945 and has helped shape the city that Heidelberg has become after WWII. Most of the Germans I've spoken with are really sad to see the Americans go. Who will they speak English with now?

This picture was taken up in the hills, I mean mountains, above Heidelberg looking down into the town of Neckargemund. We have some friends that live there and every time we visit I am green with envy.

This is the view from their patio. I mean really, is this fair? 

Pastures with grazing cows and farms that grow their own produce dot this quiet area. It's a tranquil place to visit. It makes everyone happy to go on a drive up into the hills mountains.

Smiling faces all around. Just take a look. Thank you, Heidelberg.