TRIER, GERMANY

Saturday found us wandering about Trier, Germany.  And wouldn't you know, much to my husband's dismay, there was another Flohmarkt in their Stadtzentrum (a flea market in their city center) .  I'm beginning to think this might be a regular thing in German cities as we saw one in Nurembourg last weekend and now this one in Trier this weekend.  However, hands down, the one in Trier was much more intriguing.  I had to all but bury my hands in my pockets to keep from snatching up the Patisserie platter and dome pictured above.  I've regretted it a couple of times since, so I know I will go looking for one soon.

The photo below is just incredible.  I love how all of the shapes, textures, and colors add interest to the collection.  My father smoked a pipe when I was a child and I have nothing but fond memories of both the smell and sight of a good pipe.  You don't see many men smoking a pipe nowadays; I wonder if it will make a comeback?  Look at these beauties, one is just more fascinating than the next.

Do you have a need for an antique ride-on child's pony?  I don't, but it is delightful.  It is on wheels (a precursor of the skateboard?) and the child can move forwards or backwards by pushing with his feet on the floor or cement.  What fun it would be to display this child's toy!

Trier isn't just about Flohmarkts, it is about much more.  It is considered the oldest city in Germany, founded in or before 16 BC!  It lies in a valley between vine-covered hills on the German border with Luxembourg and within the important Mosel wine growing region.  A few of the most famous well-preserved Roman and Medieval buildings include:

Porta Nigra, the best preserved Roman city gate North of the Alps

The Cathedral of Trier 

The Baroque stucco-work in the vault of the west-end choir of the Cathedral

Amazing ornate organ pipes

But what we discovered at the Cathedral turned out to be one of most favorite sights.  There are times you visit a place and feel the history and the fact that it is a special place.  Such was the case when we entered the courtyard.  Unbelievable serenity surrounded us once we entered the courtyard.  I think you will agree that it is a very beautiful setting.

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                                                 Cathedral Courtyard

Gothic vaulting surrounding the courtyard.

Back onto the streets of Trier, we were delighted to see the Gothic architecture so adored by Germans and visitors alike.

These two musicians serenaded us with the only polka I know, "Beer Barrel Polka."  But the Hungarians do it best.  Have a listen:

I will leave you with one of the most unique bicycles we have ever seen; a bike for 3!  (Pictured below, from Trier, Germany)