Harburg Unfulfilled Dream of Michael Jackson

The Swabian Harburg, the location of which people often clarify to distinguish it from the same-name district, has been known since 1150. It was then that Harburg Castle was first mentioned in the chronicles. Subsequently, a village grew around the castle. Despite the fact that more than a century has passed since then, the picture has not changed much here. Today, too, there is a locality behind the castle’s walls with five and a half thousand inhabitants.

The name Harburg goes back to the old German and, according to historians, means "castle on the marsh". Emperors of the Holy Roman Empire of the House of Hohenstaufen built the castle here. Later it was rebuilt by different owners. However, it retained the unique charm and entourage of a medieval fortress. It’s no coincidence that tourists rush here from April to October every year. King of Pop Michael Jackson himself was one of the visitors to the castle in the 80-ies. Harburg impressed the musician so that he called it “the castle of his dreams” and attempted to buy it. But he was refused.

In addition to visiting the castle, people go to Harburg also for the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Farmers who once lived here eventually turned into craftsmen. Therefore, the narrow and winding streets remind of a medieval "city of masters". The windows of the tiny stone houses "look" at each other; the roadways are paved with ancient cobblestones, lined with small shops and the restaurants captivate with authenticity. A tunnel cut through directly below the hill, on which the castle stands, adds color to the city. 

It is always especially pleasant to taste the native cuisine in such a place. For example, in the local restaurants you will find Swabian home-made noodles called Spätzle. The dough is made of only milk, flour, egg and salt. Spätzle is often served with meat sauce. Maultaschen or the "Swabian ravioli" is another signature dish in Swabia. It has been known since the XVII century! Maultaschen is always rectangular and its stuffing often consists of ground beef mixed with herbs. However, Maultaschen can also be cheese, cottage cheese, potatoes.

A visit to Harburg will surely be remembered as a very pleasant journey. And if you're lucky to get on the filming of a historical film (which often happens here), or to see the historical reconstruction in Harburg Castle – the bright impressions will be even greater!