Today was a double header. We started out docking in Germersheim Germany and took a short bus ride to Speyer. This quaint, ancient town is nestled between rolling hills and vineyards. We are in the Rhineland region famous for wine production dating back centuries.

Walking from the parking area adjacent to the cathedral, we pass through a pretty park area with green space and historical monuments.

The cathedral building process was started in 900 ad and completed in 1030 or so. It was destroyed and rebuilt and refurbished many times over the centuries. It’s an imposing Romanesque structure that is quite simple and stark compared to the gothic style. There’s a lengthy and interesting history around the museum from the early years where kingdoms changed hands based on victories in war and marriage contracts.

The front of the cathedral boasts a massive courtyard and the beautiful round window is the centrepiece.

Speyer is the origin of the pretzel. I found this tale so interesting. The bishop of yore tasked the local baker with making bread that he could look through and see the sky. The baker formed the dough in the shape of arms parting and voila! The pretzel was created. It’s prominence is carved in stone on the cathedral’s facade. You see the bishop holding a pretzel as you enter the building.

The bishops residence is located across the courtyard and today is a lovely yellow house.

Another interesting fact about this ancient town is that it is on the spiritual El Camino trail. Pilgrims walking the trail would notice the shell symbol on the ground in the courtyard and know they were on the right path. There’s even a monument in town depicting a barefooted pilgrim on his mystical journey. Folklore suggests that anyone touching the pilgrims feet will have a safe journey.

I’m with Rudy so the blessing passes on to me as well!

Behind the cathedral we meander over a bridge and through small alleys and streets. It’s fascinating to imagine medieval lifestyles as we enjoy the beauty of the architecture and the festive decor.

There’s another very interesting (and timely) tale in Speyer. A cartoon artist, Thomas Nast, who immigrated to the US (and drew for the Civil War) us from this quaint town. He gave us the image of Santa 🎅🏼 that we know today. The jolly St Nikolaus!

We emerge from the old town into the Main Street which is adorned with shops, eateries, pretzel booths and of course a market. Along the street are live spruce trees decked out by local school children. It’s an annual tradition.

The Main Street area leads up the original city gate which is an imposing tower.

We return to the ship and immediately sail on for Mannheim.

I phone my folks to update them and find out this region was among their favourites for venturing out on my dad’s motorcycle! He told me about their adventures and how they swam in the Neckar River!

In Mannheim the sun is setting as we dock and we are transported to the city centre where a lively Christmas market is waiting for us at the city’s water tower.

After leaving the market (and having enjoyed the delicious experience) we venture across the road and warm up with a coffee and a little something extra.

Back on the ship we continue the festive spirit….

See you tomorrow….