Did you know there’s a city in Germany where buildings are made of tiny diamonds? Welcome to Nördlingen, a medieval town built inside a massive meteorite crater. Located in Bavaria, this hidden gem offers a mix of history, stunning architecture, and geological wonders. Read on to discover why Nördlingen should be on your travel bucket list!
Why is Nördlingen Unique?
Nördlingen sits inside the Nördlinger Ries, a giant impact crater formed approximately 15 million years ago when a meteorite around 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) wide struck the Earth. The impact created an enormous depression, now a roughly circular crater with a diameter of about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles). This event was so powerful that it instantly vaporized rock, creating intense pressure that led to the formation of millions of tiny diamonds.
These diamonds, known as impact diamonds, are microscopic—each one no more than a few micrometers in size. The diamonds were formed due to the extreme heat and pressure from the asteroid impact, transforming carbon in the rock into crystalline structures. When the medieval builders quarried local rock for construction, they unknowingly built the entire city using diamond-filled stone.
The Nördlinger Ries Crater: A Geological Wonder
The Nördlinger Ries crater is one of the best-preserved large impact craters in the world. It is filled with a special type of rock called suevite, which consists of fragmented minerals and glassy components fused together under high temperatures. This suevite is rich in tiny diamonds and is what gives the buildings in Nördlingen their unique geological history.
Scientists and geologists from around the world visit Nördlingen to study the crater, as its structure is similar to craters found on the Moon and Mars. In fact, NASA trained Apollo astronauts in this area to help them recognize impact-related geological formations before their lunar missions.
Top Things to Do in Nördlingen
1. Climb the Daniel Tower
Get a breathtaking panoramic view of the circular city from the Daniel Tower, the 90-meter bell tower of St. George’s Church. This historic tower, also built from diamond-rich suevite rock, offers the best vantage point to see the crater’s distinctive ring shape.
2. Walk the Medieval City Walls
Nördlingen is one of the few German towns with a completely intact medieval wall. Walk the full 2.7-kilometer loop and soak in the town’s rich history while marveling at the ancient stonework, knowing that you are literally surrounded by diamonds!
3. Visit the RiesCrater Museum
Want to learn more about the asteroid impact? The RiesCrater Museum in Nördlingen provides fascinating exhibits on meteorites, planetary geology, and impact craters. Highlights include a massive rock sample from the Moon, donated by NASA, and interactive displays that explain how the impact changed the landscape forever.
4. Explore the Historic Old Town
- St. George’s Church: A stunning Gothic masterpiece built from suevite rock, making it one of the most unique churches in Europe.
- The Town Hall: A beautifully preserved Renaissance-era building that has served as the city’s governmental hub for centuries.
- The Alte Schranne: A former granary that now hosts cultural events, local markets, and exhibitions.
5. Discover Nördlingen in Pop Culture
Movie lovers will recognize Nördlingen as the backdrop for the final scene in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971), where Charlie and Willy Wonka fly over the town in a glass elevator. Its perfectly circular layout makes it one of the most visually striking locations in Europe.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring & Summer (April–September): Best for outdoor sightseeing and festivals.
- Autumn (September–October): Experience Bavarian harvest festivals and mild weather.
- Winter (December): Enjoy the magical Christmas Market with twinkling lights, festive treats, and a fairytale atmosphere.
How to Get to Nördlingen
Located on the Romantic Road, Nördlingen is easily accessible:
- From Munich: 90 minutes by car
- From Augsburg: 60 minutes
- From Stuttgart: 2 hours
Final Thoughts
Nördlingen is a must-visit for history lovers, geology enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a unique destination. Walking through this medieval town built from microscopic diamonds is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re admiring its ancient walls, climbing its iconic towers, or exploring its fascinating crater, Nördlingen offers something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of this extraordinary city!
