Baden-Baden, Germany

19-20.08.13

 

How we loved Baden-Baden!  The German word, Baden, translates as "bathing, to bathe or baths". The springs of Baden-Baden were known to the Romans under Roman emperor Hadrian. 

The town was named "Baden" (without the repetition) in the Middle Ages. The town fell into ruin but reappeared in 1112 as the seat (until 1705) of the Margraviate of Baden.  From the 14th century to the end of the 17th, Baden-Baden was the residence of the margraves of Baden, to whom Baden-Baden gave its name. The margraves first dwelled in the old castle, the ruins of which still occupy the summit above the town, but, in 1479, they moved to the new castle, which is situated on the hillside nearer to the town. 

Sat in this idyllic setting for at least an hour, enjoying the sun.

This beautiful building is now the tourist information.

 

Kurhaus

Theatre

Thinking of my "Tea Ladies"

 

Baden-Baden has a huge casino.  After spending time in the thermal baths, a bit of gambling is in order.

 

These painted horses appear throughout the city.  This one is in the casino.  Very much like the painted Orcas in Vancouver.

 

A little horse for little kids.

What, a horse on a balcony?

 

 

These I recognize.

 



Baden-Baden is truly a place to rest and relax and rejuvenate.  Perfect spot to get over our jet-lag!  It's a quiet, charming town.  Lots of flowers, trees, pedestrian walkways.

At lunch we met a man who was born in France, studied in Russia and now lives in Houston, Texas.  He was wheeling and dealing some pretty impressive real estate.  Told us that 5,000 Russian families now live in Baden-Baden and have made a significant impact on the economy.

The Rizzi Restaurant

We loved our lunch so much at the Rizzi that we went back for supper.  Had weiner schnitzel and an awesome potato salad.  Of course, lots of wine.

 

 

Such a colourful setting.

Art at every corner.

Such fresh air to breathe.

Karl next to another fountain.

Karl enjoying the sun.

Love these signs.