We began the morning more leisurely after breakfast with an amusing demonstration in the ship's lounge from Mr. Ittig, a local glass blower. Having been properly introduced to the right way to consume Jagermeister (Hunt Master). We made a mental note to visit his shop later in the afternoon to acquire the necessary accouterments...lol
But first, Miltenberg! This was another charming town and looked even more fairy tale-ish. Our guided walking tour took us all around the old city walls (built 1268), up and down the winding cobbled streets as we listened via quietvox to the historical makeup of this primarily catholic town. As it happened to be Corpus Christi, all the shops, other than museums and cafes, were closed and there were numerous establishments with floral displays to celebrate the public holiday.
No, the streets were not totally deserted - just appears so ..well timed photo taking
Markings on the wall re flood water levels
Lots of lovely boutique type stores showing that despite it being a medieval town, they are fashion forward
Cute animals made of hay
This historic house has changed owners many times, latest residents were butchers and it's inscription on the top left reads .."with meat you can do anything!"
The star symbol in Franconia actually denotes quality brewery
Per our guide, who lives just across the street from this corner, the ladies were up at 3am to set up this tribute on Corpus Christi day
The top of this church, as well as many others that we see in Europe have the Rooster on the top, almost like a weathervane. The actual meaning originate from Christian symbolism. The rooster is a familiar Passion symbol. Prior to being arrested by the soldiers, Jesus predicted during the last supper that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed on the following morning. At the rooster's crowing, Peter remembered Jesus's words and "went out and wept bitterly". The Rooster since then are shown on rooftop of churches to remind all of charity and forgiveness to sinners.. as Jesus forgave Peter's denial of Christ.
Back to the ship to refuel and ready ourselves for a 25km scenic bike ride from Freudenberg to Wertheim
Half-way point of our ride
We're almost at the completion of the bike trail
Another climb to the ancient fortress atop Wertheim
Well deserved beer and aperitif to celebrate the completion of our bike excursion and climb to Johannisturm - inscriptions re extensions were completed around 1506/1509
Town of Wertheim
Visiting Mr. Ittig's store & gallery in town
