First in Germany after a very comfortable flight on Delta. So grateful we didn't have to cruise thru Eastern European airspace.Our first port of call was the historic little town of Wildeshausen in Oldenburg (Lower Saxony) where my family lives.It was bequeathed town rights in 1403 and has been celebrating this fact ever since with its annual "Schuetzenfest"- a marksmen shooting competition. A big excuse for a gigantic festival and brewhaha; a tradition that many small German towns keep up lovingly.The best shooter will be King for a year and can choose his queen. Of course, he must also be a big sponsor of the event.Even children get involved in dancing competitions. I remembered the one time I was allowed to participate at the tender age of 10.My wish wasn't granted,; I didn't become the children's queen.
Wildeshausen has been an important market spot on the Flemish/Dutch trade routes since the Middle Ages. It's Protestant Church Alexanderkirche houses relics of Alexander the Martyr which were brought from Rome in 851.
Wildeshausen is a quietly touristy place. Its biggest attractions are of an archeological nature: Menhirs or graves belonging to a megalithic culture on the so-called
Megalithic Route between Oldenburg and Osnabruck. People lived and buried their deaths there about 5000 years ago. Here's an example near my aunt's house:
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