Discover Tannhausen

If you would like to explore architectural history, landscapes and routes suited to different interests during your trip, Tannhausen offers several specific points of interest. The town’s history stretches from prehistoric traces to buildings from the late Middle Ages. There are also scenic viewpoints, a themed nature trail and religious traditions.

History and late Gothic architecture

Tannhausen was first mentioned in a document in 1100. Stone artefacts and burial mounds point to prehistoric settlements during the Hallstatt period. These finds complement the documentary record of the first mention in 1100 with archaeological evidence.

A prominent landmark is the Catholic parish church of St. Luke, a remarkable late Gothic church in the style of Stephan Weyrer of Nördlingen. Its 46-metre-high tower was completed in 1479. The nave dates from 1520 and was designed and built by Stephan Weyrer the Elder. The dates make the different construction phases clear: the tower and nave do not date from the same period. Tannhausen Castle is a country estate at the entrance to the town, near the Sechta. The family von und zu Thannhausen also still has its ancestral seat on the edge of the Ries.

Viewpoints and landscape

At the Bergheim water reservoir, there is a viewpoint with an information board, seating and a viewing platform. From there, the view takes in Dinkelsbühl, the Hesselberg, the Ipf and Baldern Castle. Another described viewpoint is at a seating area on the Green Trail near the Liassic escarpment; from here, panoramic views extend across Franconia. The two locations offer different viewing directions to consider when choosing an excursion destination.

The way the landscape is shaped is also part of Tannhausen’s character: nature conservation measures in the land consolidation area created habitats and protected areas. If you are interested in this combination of landscape and nature conservation, the STAUNE Trail offers a way to explore it. The eight-kilometre biodiversity trail passes through eight different habitats. At eight stations, information boards or interactive features introduce topics related to habitats such as heathland, orchards, water and hedgerows. Those interested in this combination of landscape and nature conservation can explore it on the STAUNE Trail. The eight-kilometre biodiversity trail passes through eight different habitats. At eight stations, information boards or interactive features introduce topics related to habitats such as heathland, orchards, water and hedgerows.

Routes for different interests

The STAUNE Trail can be started in Tannhausen; dining options are available in all three participating municipalities. Its length and stations give the route a clear thematic focus. The Green Trail, in turn, is intended for cyclists, hikers and those seeking recreation in the rural landscape. Near the Liassic escarpment, a seating area combines a place to pause with panoramic views across Franconia. Which perspective appeals to you most depends on whether you are particularly interested in nature topics along a trail or in the activities for which the rural landscape is intended.

There is also a named route for those travelling by road: the German Limes Road follows state road 1076 through Tannhausen towards Dinkelsbühl and Mönchsroth. This describes its route through the town and its direction; it does not specify a particular excursion duration.

Pilgrimage traditions and practical information

Religious traditions include an annual walking pilgrimage to Maria Brünnlein near Wemding. It has been held since 1851 and covers about 40 kilometres. Another pilgrimage to Schönenberg takes place on the first Saturday in May in honour of Father Philipp Jeningen. The two traditions therefore differ both in the occasion stated and in their timing: a recurring date in May is given for the pilgrimage to Schönenberg, while the walking pilgrimage to Maria Brünnlein is associated with its long tradition and approximate distance.

For time outdoors, the municipal barbecue area with its shelter is also a useful option to know about. It is located above the sports and leisure centre at the western entrance to town; prior registration is required to use it. When planning your visit, you can choose between architectural history, the different landscape and route experiences, and Tannhausen’s religious traditions.

Discover more destinations: Heubach, Mutlangen, Spraitbach, Neresheim, Hüttlingen, Heuchlingen, Stödtlen, Bopfingen.

Back to the regional travel overview: Ostalbkreis.