Waal: Local History, Theatre and the Singold Spring

Waal lies in a shallow hollow at the source of the Singold, on the edge of the Allgäu landscape. Local history and nature have clearly defined points of reference here: St. Anna Parish Church, the historic old town and the Singold spring, where the Waal circular hiking trail begins.

Building history and the historic town centre

St. Anna Parish Church in Waal probably dates from the 14th century. It was remodelled between 1470 and 1510 and given a three-aisled hall. A hall of this kind divides the church interior into a main nave and two side aisles. The church tower was heightened during the Baroque period. The bell was cast by Gregor Löffler, an Innsbruck-based cannon and bell founder who served the Free Imperial City of Augsburg between 1524 and 1544. St. Anna brings together different aspects of architectural and local history, including its interior layout, tower history and bell-making.

Waal’s historic old town is listed as the Waal ensemble and as an archaeological monument in the Ostallgäu district’s register of historic monuments. Waal Castle is the residence of the princely House of von der Leyen and is next to Waal Market Square. The old town’s heritage status and the castle’s location by the market square provide different points of reference for understanding the town.

Theatre in Waal

Another cultural landmark is Manfred Dempf’s play “Who Do You Think I Am?”, which premiered in Waal in 2023. In 2023, a total of 8,300 visitors attended 20 performances at the Waal Passion Play Theatre. The title, author, venue and year provide the historical context for the theatre; the visitor figure is part of this retrospective on the performances.

The Singold, water-treading facility and circular trail

The Singold rises in Waal. The Waal circular hiking trail begins at the Singold spring in Waal, a town known for its Passion Play. If you plan to walk the circular trail, check local conditions before setting out. The spring is therefore a specific point of reference both for the landscape and for the start of the named route.

A water-treading facility in the Singold is located at Waal Market Square and serves as a rest stop for many families. If the facility fits into your travel plans, it is advisable to check its current availability before visiting.

Arts and crafts market and July offerings

The Waal Arts and Crafts Market attracts many visitors and is known well beyond the district borders. In July, it offers a special selection of culinary offerings. This adds a seasonal point of reference to the architectural history and the landscape along the Singold. If you are planning your trip specifically around the market, check the event date in advance.

The wider Ostallgäu region

The wider travel destination of Ostallgäu offers a regional setting for exploring more landscapes and routes. In the southwest, the mountains in the Ostallgäu district form part of the Vilser Mountains, and in the southeast, part of the Ammer Mountains. At 2,082 metres, the Hochplatte is the highest mountain in Ostallgäu. There are 32 local hiking routes in the area, showcasing special natural and cultural treasures. The Ostallgäu Cycling Travel Region includes regional routes across the entire Ostallgäu. Each route is 25 to 76 kilometres long, consistently signposted and has its own theme.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Halblech, Pforzen, Biessenhofen, Kaufbeuren, Eisenberg, Füssen, Stötten Am Auerberg, Pfronten

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