Messern: Discover Hiking and History

Messern combines hiking opportunities with a local history whose milestones span the Middle Ages and the early modern period. You can choose from a range of options for your stay: hikes with clearly described routes, the “mir schmeckt´s” adventure trail on foot or by bicycle, and historical topics ranging from Messern’s elevation to market status to Wildberg Castle. The routes differ in length, difficulty and course, allowing you to choose according to your own interests.

Hiking around Messern

The area around Messern and the Taffa Valley is ideal for relaxing hikes through largely unspoilt countryside. The Angelikaweg trail starts in Messern, is 4.80 kilometres long and is rated as moderately difficult. It follows the Taffa River and passes two mills. Its length and difficulty rating provide two specific points of reference, while the river and mills shape the route described.

The Sandbachweg trail starts at the main square in Messern. It leads over Kirchenberg hill and past Wildberg Castle, then continues along well-maintained forest and field paths to Irnfritz-Bhf. The Angelikaweg is described primarily by its distance and difficulty rating, whereas the Sandbachweg is described by its starting point, route and destination. This distinction can help you decide whether to choose your hike by distance or by named stops along the way.

The “mir schmeckt´s” adventure trail can be explored on foot or by bicycle in Messern and the surrounding area. It adds another option to the hiking routes, one that is not limited to walking.

Local History and Buildings

Messern was first mentioned in a document in 1210 by Engilbert von Meizzare. In 1513, Emperor Maximilian elevated the village to market-town status. These two dates mark distinct milestones in the village’s history: its first documentary mention was followed later by its elevation to market-town status. The foundation stone of the parish church was laid in the 14th century, adding an architectural landmark to this chronology.

The pillory in Messern dates from 1677 and is a reminder of the former lower court jurisdiction. Market-town status, church construction and the administration of justice thus represent different aspects of the area’s historical development.

From the outset, Messern’s history was closely linked to Wildberg Castle, perched high above the Taffa Valley. At the end of the 16th century, Hans von Puchheim converted Wildberg Castle into a Renaissance castle and reinforced its defences. The Sandbachweg passes the castle, bringing a specific walking route and a historical connection together.

Brick Museum and Surroundings

A private brick museum houses a collection of more than 3,000 bricks. During a guided tour, which must be booked in advance, the museum offers insights into brickmaking and the significance of the symbols incorporated into the bricks. While the castle and pillory illustrate lordship and the administration of justice, this collection focuses on craftsmanship, materials and symbols.

Nearby, a natural pond lies at the edge of the forest on the road from Irnfritz-Ort to Messern. The market municipality of Irnfritz-Messern issues fishing permits there.

Discover more destinations: Klein-Reinprechtsdorf, Rosenburg, Maria Dreieichen, Langau, Gars Am Kamp, Meiseldorf, Horn, Sigmundsherberg

Go to the main travel overview: Horn.