Happy TravellerWelcome to Weilheim in Oberbayern, a picturesque town located in the south of Bavaria, Germany. With its old city-wall, historic houses, and fascinating museum, Weilheim is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture. Let’s take a closer look at what this charming town has to offer.
Local History:
Weilheim in Oberbayern has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the Bronze Age. The town’s name is believed to be derived from the Roman villas that once stood in the area. The Romans built Via Raetia in 200 AD, which passed through Weilheim and connected Augsburg to the Brenner Pass. After the Romans withdrew from the region, the Bavarians took over and established the village of Wilhain. In the Middle Ages, Weilheim was home to several noble families, and a palisade fence was built around the town. The Munich patrician Ludwig Pütrich enabled the establishment of the Heiliggeistspital outside the town walls in the 14th century. In the 17th century, Weilheim became known for its flourishing art scene, particularly the Weilheimer sculpture school.
19th and 20th Century:
In the 19th century, Weilheim underwent significant changes. The Franciscan monastery was abolished in 1802, and a severe fire disaster destroyed 120 houses in the Oberen Stadt in 1810. The former Franciscan monastery burnt down in 1825, and a Heiliggeistspital was built in its place. The first daily newspaper, the Weilheimer Tagblatt, was published in 1869. In the 20th century, Weilheim was heavily impacted by World War II. The train station was destroyed, and 24 people were killed in an air raid in 1945.
Sport:
Weilheim is home to the aeroclub Weilheim-Peißenberg, which is known for its success in glider aerobatics. Markus Feyerabend and Hans-Georg Resch, members of the German national glider aerobatics team, are both from Weilheim.
Transport:
Weilheim has a station on the Munich-Garmisch-Partenkirchen railway, making it easily accessible by train.
Notable People:
Weilheim has been home to many notable people throughout history, including sculptors Georg Petel and Hans Krumpper, musician Michael Holm, and footballer Thomas Müller.
International Relations:
Weilheim in Oberbayern is twinned with Narbonne, France, and Yelabuga, Tatarstan, Russian Federation.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Weilheim in Oberbayern has something for everyone. Come and explore this charming town and discover its many treasures for yourself!
