6 minute read
ABC in KMC: Oberes Glantal
by Gina Hutchins-Inman, 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
A hidden gem in the mild west
Most Kaiserslautern Military Community members live either in Kaiserslautern County or in the city. However, others have ventured out a bit further and reside in Kusel County. Neighboring Kaiserslautern, it includes three large union communities: Kusel-Altenglan, Lauterecken-Wolfstein and Oberes Glantal with over 2,000 KMC members, let’s head out west and check out their neighborhood!
Nestled in the picturesque Glan River valley, Oberes Glantal is a charming region that offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant local culture, just west of Ramstein Air Base. The municipality, with about 30,000 inhabitants, comprises several quaint towns and villages.
Schönenberg-Kübelberg is the largest town and serves as the administrative center of Oberes Glantal. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and a great starting point for exploring the region, it hosts a weekly farmers’ market held every Friday morning at the marketplace where you can find a variety of fresh local produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, and regional specialties.
A mysterious Bierkeller
The bierkeller in Schönenberg-Kübelberg is a highlight for beer enthusiasts and brings a slice of traditional beer culture to the region. Offering a variety of local brews in a gemütlich (cozy) setting, it also has a rich history and a few intriguing legends associated with it.
The cellar was constructed around 1843 by Silesian miners who dug it into the sandstone on “Sandhiwwel.” Legend says that the ghost of Daniel Niergarth, the first brewer who took over in 1844, still roams the tunnels and some visitors have reported hearing mysterious footsteps and seeing shadows moving in the dimly lit corridors.
A hidden treasure buried is said to be buried in the bierkeller. During World War II, it is believed that some valuable items were hidden in the tunnels to protect them from being looted. It has never been found, adding an air of mystery to the site. The Miners’ Secret claims that miners discovered a secret underground passage leading to the nearby forest, which was supposedly used to smuggle goods and evade taxes.
Initially used for brewing and storing beer, the tunnels of the bierkeller were later repurposed as air-raid shelters during World War II. Today, it is part of the “Begehbares Geschichtsbuch” (Walkable History Book) project, which aims to make local history accessible and engaging. The bierkeller is open to the public every first Sunday of the month from 2–5 p.m., group tours and beer tasting can also be arranged by contacting the local municipality. An elevator enables access for individuals with limited mobility.
Rendezvous with nature
Ohmbachsee: Recreational haven Ohmbachsee is a central attraction in Oberes Glantal. The expansive water surface and surrounding parkland is ideal for relaxation and recreation and offers plenty of activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. The annual “Romantisches Seefest” held in July attracts thousands of visitors.
Flora and fauna for kids to explore: The naturally designed children’s playground on Rosenstrasse (behind the police station) in Kübelberg opened after extensive renovation. Ideas from children and citizens were included in the design and planning.
Hiking Trails: The most popular hiking event “Schlemmerwanderung” takes place in May, where participants can hike, dine and enjoy spectacular views over the countryside. Some of the trails are paved and ideal for wheelchairs, inline skates and strollers. Oberes Glantal region is also known for its scenic hiking trails that bring history to life:
Diamantschleiferweg offers a glimpse into the region’s historical diamond cutting industry.
Kirschenlandwanderweg is perfect for nature lovers and takes you through picturesque cherry orchards.
Ritter Gerin Weg features historical landmarks, including the Gallows Hill.
Villa Rustica Trail is a 6-kilometer circular trail starting from Herschweiler-Pettersheim, leading directly to the Roman estate.
Historical highlights
Villa Rustica is an open-air museum in Herschweiler-Pettersheim that showcases a former Roman estate from the 2nd to 3rd century. Gallows Hill is located in Schönenberg-Kübelberg and was historically used for public executions from the 12th to the 16th century. A replica of the gallows now serves as a landmark along the “Ritter Gerin” hiking trail.
Jewish Museum Steinbach am Glan: Steinbach was the center of Jewish life in the southern part of the district for centuries. One of the earliest synagogues in Jewish regional communities was built there in 1725 and the town developed into a center of Jewish life. In the middle of the 19th century, almost 30 percent of the population was Jewish. Isidor Triefus, born in Steinbach am Glan in 1845, founded the diamond industry in Westrich.
Diamond Cutter Museum Brücken: Sawing and grinding — these work steps are used to refine the rough diamond into a sparkling gem. The diamond cutting museum in Brücken presents working techniques in true-to-original and fully functional workplaces. Exhibits, picture panels and modern video and computer presentations demonstrate the eventful history of diamond cutting in the region.
Mining Farmers Museum Breitenbach: Mining farming is an essential part of the historical development of the region. The museum impressively documents the life and work of the mining farmers. Visitors can view a replica mine tunnel, experience life in typical living conditions and everyday items used by the miner farmers. The bakery is also in operation for various events, and a true-to-original and operational forge was set up in the inner courtyard of the museum. Opening hours: Wednesdays from 7–10 p.m. and every first Sunday from 2–6 p.m. Appointments can also be made at Oberes Glantal municipal administration at 06373/ 50 40.
Get back on track!
If you are ready to test your muscles and want to explore the area with nostalgic charm, this is a great experience for young and old, just bordering Oberes Glantal! A draisine is a single-track, human-powered vehicle without pedals. Enjoy the idyll of the Glantal during the summer season, your eyes can wander, you have plenty of time and don’t need to steer. There are stops in every town and in beautiful places along the route where trolleys can be parked to explore museums, architectural treasures, art and culture, and regional gastronomy.
Other scenic towns in Oberes Glantal include Glan-Münchweiler, which is a peaceful village perfect for those seeking tranquility, while Gries is a small village that offers a serene escape with its beautiful landscapes.
Markets and festivities
Johannismarkt is always on the weekend prior to June 24, and the largest folk fest. Schönenberger Kerwe is celebrated in August, Brücken and Kübelberger Kerwe in September, and Christmas Markets are held in December. An exciting horse market draws thousands of equestrian fans to Quirnbach Nov. 13 this year.
There is a lot to explore out “west” with soft rolling hills, serene landscapes and plenty of history. See for yourself and make sure to enjoy and share your discoveries in the picturesque Upper Glan Valley! For information on events, visit: https://www.vgog.de/vg_oberes_glantal/Aktuelles/Veranstaltungskalender/
