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Veitshöchheim: What the Geographical Center of the EU Has to Offer
Looking for a little-known gem to explore in Germany? Then head to the Bavarian community of Veitshöchheim, with a population of less than 10,000.
Veitshöchheim is located northwest of Würzburg on the Main River and has been a special place since 2020, specifically since the United Kingdom's Brexit from the European Union. Since then, according to measurements by the Institut national de I'information géographique et forestiére (IGN), it has been the geographical center of the EU. Previously, this point was 70 kilometers further west.
We'll reveal how this center is marked and what other attractions await you on-site.
How to Recognize the Geographical Center of the EU
Admittedly, if unaware of its existence, travelers can easily miss the 'geographical center of the EU'. It is located in Gadheim, a district belonging to Veitshöchheim, on farmland with coordinates of 9°54'07'' east longitude, 49°50'35'' north latitude. To make this special point visible, there stands a large boulder with a measuring rod.
Next to it, there is a round bench for picnics or reflection over this politically and historically significant site, along with an information board featuring facts about the EU and its shifting geographical centers. Not to mention, three flags wave in the wind - those of the EU, Bavaria, and the community of Veitshöchheim.
There's also a social-media-friendly photo point: A few meters in front of the boulder stands a large wooden picture frame with 'Veitshöchheim' and 'Center of the EU' written along the bottom.
Other Attractions in Veitshöchheim
Veitshöchheim Palace and its Rococo Garden
The palace of Veitshöchheim has been the tourist highlight of the small town since its construction began in 1680. It initially served as the summer residence for the prince-bishops of Würzburg. The famous architect Balthasar Neumann (who also designed the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site) expanded it in the mid-18th century, giving it its current Baroque and Rococo appearance.
Today, visitors can tour the elaborately restored rooms as part of a guided tour. On the ground floor, the permanent exhibition provides insights into the Rococo garden and its development - one of the few gardens of its kind in Europe that has remained almost unchanged and not converted into a landscape park. For this reason, it is regarded as one of the most important Rococo gardens in Europe. You should take ample time to explore the artistic pavilions, picturesque lakes, and sandstone figures.
Historical Old Town
The historical old town of Veitshöchheim, known as the Altort, invites visitors for a stroll through its car-free, cobbled streets. During this stroll, you can discover additional attractions in the small town - including numerous restored half-timbered houses, the conspicuous yellow Carnival House with its painted façade. It is home to the Franconian Carnival Association and a real eye-catcher. Inside, it houses an exhibition on the topic of Carnival in Franconia.
Equally striking is the yellow-painted town hall in a building dating from 1748. Also picturesque are the Martin's Chapel from the 12th century, one of the oldest churches in the Würzburg region, and the St. Vitus Church with its white and pink façade.
Jewish Culture Museum and former Synagogue
History enthusiasts shouldn't miss the Jewish Culture Museum along with the baroque oak former synagogue in the old town, built in 1730. The museum offers insights into the life of the Jewish community in Franconia.
Active in Nature Around Veitshöchheim
The diverse natural surroundings of Veitshöchheim invite you for various outdoor adventures.
Among other activities, you can hike, such as on the popular ZweiUferPanoramaweg, which stretches about 50 kilometers to various locations in the region of the same name. All hiking routes are well signposted, including the beautiful Main Hiking Trail along the Main River or the Bocksbeutel Trail through the local vineyards.
Additionally, the region around Veitshöchheim is ideal for bicycling. A 600-kilometer-long route runs along the Main River, from its source to its mouth, though you can choose to tackle just specific segments. It's only a ten-kilometer ride to Würzburg. For e-bike enthusiasts, the 25-kilometer 'Between Heaven and Earth' tour is particularly popular, taking you to fantastic vantage points in the ZweiUferLand.
The Main River also provides plenty of summer diversions for locals and travelers alike: You can take a boat tour on the river, practice stand-up paddling, or try your hand at fishing.
On the Trail of Wine
Wine enthusiasts take note: In the region around Veitshöchheim, you can undertake wine tours-as of 2023, you can even do it in a vintage fire truck or on a guided e-bike tour (starting in Würzburg), where you'll learn everything important about the delicious Franconian wine.
Of course, you can also explore the vineyards of the region on your own, through hikes or bike tours, or visit wineries that offer tastings.
Carnival in Veitshöchheim
If you travel to Veitshöchheim during the carnival season, you're in for colorful carnival celebrations. It all starts with Weiberfastnacht, an evening of lively entertainment with music, dance, humorous commentary, and, of course, culinary delights.
A highlight is the Rosenmontag parade, a tradition in Veitshöchheim for more than 50 years. The vibrant parade with float displays, walking groups, and marching bands winds through the town's center, followed by a large after-parade party in the town hall courtyard.
The finale is Fasching Tuesday, featuring the 'Schlappsäue,' a unique custom where masked groups roam the streets asking for food and drink, much to the delight of cheering spectators.
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