Weihnachtsmarkt Trier

Trier, is one of my favorite cities in Germany. Although Trier is Germany oldest city, what makes it interesting for me is that it was one of Europe's most important cites north of the Alps early in its history. As a result, there a buildings and ruins from Roman, Middle Ages, Renaissance and Baroque.

When I heard that Trier's Weihnachtsmarkt was one of the nicest in the area, this was enough reason to hop on a train for another visit.

Nürnberg's Christkindlesmarkt is Germany's oldest and most well known Weinachtsmarkt (Christmas market). This tradition has spread throughout Germany. Now every city of any size or that depends on the tourist trade has such a market. They do provide a bit of light and fun during the dark days of December (remember that we are actually north of Columbus, resulting in darkness earlier here).

Trier's market is not huge, but it has a nice setting in the city's main market place, surrounded by buildings from various periods in the city's long history. In addition, most of the cities pedestrian area is lighted by decorative stars. The market had stands selling hand made Christmas decorations and other articles. Some mass produced articles were on sale as well. There was a merry-go-round for the young kids. And, of course, several booths selling typical foods of Weinachtsmarkts, various wursts, reibekuchen (potato pancakes), and glühwein (mulled wine)