Obermaßfeld-Grimmenthal: Local History and the Werra

Local History and Historic Features

The current name Obermaßfeld is documented from 1629. In the Middle Ages, the Hillhöfe were considered the town’s finest farms. From 1378 to 1696, Obermaßfeld is described as the most important customs post in the County of Henneberg. Together, these dates provide a long historical framework for the town. Other notable features in Obermaßfeld include the old village smithy and the municipal bathhouse.

Grimmenthal, a former pilgrimage site associated with an allegedly miraculous image of the Virgin Mary, lies north of Obermaßfeld. A pilgrimage chapel was consecrated there in 1498. This historical connection adds a religious theme to the local history that is specific to Grimmenthal.

St. Stephen’s Church: Architectural History and Details

Several periods of construction come together at St. Stephen’s Church. The choir tower and church were rebuilt in the early 17th century, with further alterations made later. In 2006, the vaulted cellars of the Gaden, the gate tower and parts of the churchyard wall were restored. The wall is three metres high and largely intact along its length. South of the church are a court site with a lime tree and a grain measure stone with five measures. The rebuilding, later alterations and dated restoration offer different insights into the development of the complex.

Trade Routes and the Werra

The Werra Bridge was highly important for connecting the trade routes between Obermaßfeld and Franconia. At the edge of Obermaßfeld, in front of the weir, there is a landing and portage site for boats on the Werra. This brings a historical perspective on trade together with a direct connection to the water. Current restrictions on the river may affect its use. If you are planning a boat trip, check the conditions before setting out.

More to Explore in the Wider Travel Destination of Schmalkalden-Meiningen

The Prachtregion of the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district encompasses four landscapes: the Thuringian Forest, the Rhön, the Werra Valley and the Grabfeld. They can be explored on foot, whether you’re looking for sporting adventures or relaxed family outings. In Schmalkalden, visitors can experience how smooth, melting nougat is made in a glass-walled workshop at the Viba Nougat World. Hands-on confectionery courses include pouring chocolate, decorating nougat and creating pralines. For courses, it’s worth checking current dates and booking conditions.

Also in Schmalkalden, the “Neue Hütte” blast furnace museum tells the story of regional industry. The blast furnace plant dates from 1835; local iron ore was smelted there using charcoal to produce pig iron until 1924. Exhibitions explore the nearly 1,300-year history of iron and steel goods production in the Schmalkalden region, including the well-known “Schmalkalder Artikel.” A 45-minute guided tour covers the history and function of the blast furnace operation. You can include regional crafts and industry in your travel plans alongside Obermaßfeld’s historic features.

Find a Holiday Apartment to Suit Your Travel Interests

When looking for a holiday apartment, you can start with the kind of activities you have in mind: would you like to focus on the local and church history of Obermaßfeld, or also include landscapes, nougat-making and industrial history in the wider travel destination of Schmalkalden-Meiningen?

Discover more destinations: Roßdorf, Christes, Wallbach, Oberschönau, Fambach, Schwarza, Benshausen, Meiningen.

Back to the wider travel overview: Schmalkalden-Meiningen.