Things To Do in Bad Wildungen

Rising above the Altstadt is the massive tower of the 14th-century Stadtkirche (tel. 05621/4011), the most impressive (and oldest) structure in the town, with interesting Hallenkirch architecture. It was restored in 1995. The highlight of the church is its remarkable Niederwildungen Altarpiece, one of the best examples of early German painting. Painted in 1403 by Master Konrad von Soest, the wing-paneled altarpiece contains a large, dramatic scene of the crucifixion, flanked by six smaller scenes from the life of Christ. The work shows a French influence in the use of delicate colors and figures, made even more vivid by the use of actual gold. The church is open daily 10:30am to noon and 2 to 5pm.

The spa gardens augment the town's natural wooded surroundings with carefully planted flowers from all parts of the world, as well as with several attractive buildings, including two band shells where outdoor concerts are frequently given. The grounds are dotted with lawn chairs. The modern horseshoe-shaped arcade houses the George-Viktor Spring, plus several exclusive shops and a small auditorium.

Bad Wildungen's shops carry fashion suitable for Germany's most sophisticated cities. Shops line either side of the Brunnenallee. One of the most appealing is Manhenke, Brunnenstrasse 52 (tel. 05621/960253), which sells clothes and accessories for both men and women.

The tourist office keeps a list of special events, which are staged almost every week. Concerts and theater usually take place in the Neues Kurhaus in the town center. For tickets, call tel. 05621/704773.

Spielbank, Brunnenallee 54 (tel. 05621/960056), located in the Hotel Quellenhof, is the resort's only casino. Minor league as Germany's casinos go, it's open daily 2:30pm to midnight, with an entrance fee of 2.50€ ($4). Bring your passport (you must be 18 or older to enter and gamble). Men must wear sports jackets.

Nighttime diversions in Bad Wildungen revolve around the Brunnenallee and its extension, the Brunnenstrasse, in the form of lively bars and cafes that stay open until around 2am. Some of the best include the Warsteiner Treff, Brunnenstrasse 66 (tel. 05621/74172).