Barbarossaweg, Fernwanderweg von Korbach nach Tilleda
The Barbarossaweg is a long-distance trail through Hesse and Thuringia covering about 330 kilometers and can be split into 15 sections of 15 to 30 kilometers each. The route passes through forests, fields, and small towns, with clear markings that guide walkers throughout their journey.
The trail originated in the 1930s as part of a larger network of paths in central Germany, originally running from Ederbringhausen to Muhlhausen. After reunification in 1994, volunteers rebuilt the eastern section and extended it to the Kyffhäuser mountain range.
The trail is named after Emperor Friedrich I, whose legends shaped the region and continue to draw visitors interested in medieval history. Local residents use the path as part of their daily life, connecting nature with stories from centuries past.
The trail is open year-round and requires no special skills; terrain is gentle with some steeper sections in forested areas. Comfortable shoes and plenty of water are recommended, especially on uneven paths, and villages along the route offer shops and cafes for breaks and meals.
Around 130 artworks made from environmentally friendly materials are spread along the trail and invite walkers to pause and reflect on the connection between people and nature. These installations from the Ars Natura project turn the walk into a journey through both landscape and contemporary art.
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