Pilgrimage in Butzbach: On favorite paths to the historic forester's lodge!

Pilgrimage in Butzbach: On favorite paths to the historic forester's lodge!

On November 15, 2025, another pilgrimage tour took place in Butzbach under the motto “Pilgrimage on favorite paths of people like you and me”. Organized by the TKS (Theo Koch School), the VHC and the church under the direction of Pastor Norbert Heide, 18 interested people went romantically through the forest from Butzbach to the forester's lodge. This inn has been run by Hans Jörg Stahl and Martin Strasheim for almost 30 years and is a popular stop for hikers.

On their way, the pilgrims discovered many historic and picturesque places. Particularly noteworthy is the memorial stone for Friedrich Ludwig Weidig, which can be found near the Schrenzerbad. Weidig is considered a pioneer of the democracy movement, and in 1814 he set up the first gymnastics field in Hesse. The route is also marked by the former US military installations, which are now used as part of a nature conservation project. The former shooting range has been converted into a photovoltaic system, which underlines the group's environmentally conscious ideas.

Cultural highlights and historical sights

During their hike, the pilgrims passed the Lahntorpark and admired the historic candle arch houses, which offer a magnificent sight. Even Butzbach's smallest residential building with just 28 square meters on three floors attracts attention. The market square in Butzbach, surrounded by pretty half-timbered houses, has been identified as the “heart” of the city and represents the lively city life that is cultivated here.

A visit to the two Butzbach castles - the Landgrave's Castle and the Solmser Castle - was also on the program. Summer concerts and open-air cinema regularly take place in the inner courtyard of the Landgrave's Castle, while the Solms Castle vividly presents the history of the region with changing exhibitions. The tour ended in the Wendelinskapelle, which was built around 1440 and is the oldest half-timbered church in Hesse. A nice end to a varied tour.

Looking into the future

For everyone who was enthusiastic about the pilgrimage, there is a new highlight in prospect: The next “St. Nicholas Pilgrimage” will take place around the St. Nicholas Church in Geilshausen on December 6, 2025. The route stretches for around 8 kilometers and the participants meet at 9:30 a.m. in Schwedendorf Grünberg (deanery) or at 10:00 a.m. at the Geilshausen church. Further information is available from Pastor Norbert Heide on 0173/9807029.

Finally, a big thank you goes to Wolfgang Wellner for choosing the favorite route! The events not only show the scenic beauty and historical depth of the region, but also the sense of community that is cultivated in Butzbach.