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Showing posts from June, 2023

Blades, Beauty, and Beyond: Exploring Solingen, Germany

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Solingen boasts an extensive history that predates German unification. Famed for producing knives, scissors, and swords of every variety imaginable, Solingen stands as an early center of blade crafting.  Visit Hendrich's Drop Forge Museum to gain a full perspective of the blade-making process, from heavyweight drop hammers to bulky forging dies and everything in between. The Blade City: A Historic Center of Craftsmanship As a premier producer of cutlery and swords, Solingen boasts an illustrious history in blade production. Since as early as the Middle Ages, blacksmiths forged various iron products here, including knives forged by blacksmiths using access to iron ore for casting purposes as well as access to skilled labor pools for manufacturing swords and cutting tools. By the 17th Century, more than 300 families produced blades in Solingen; further cementing its position as global leader of blade production. Since 1884, Solingen knife makers have challenged conventional knife-mak

Saarbrücken, Germany- Melting pot of cultures

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Saarbrücken in Germany is a hot spot, yet its historic baroque cityscape makes for an intriguing visit. Additionally, two restored churches can be found here as well as Volklinger Hutte, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.  The Modern Galerie boasts an impressive collection of impressionist and expressionist art that's free to visit, it makes an excellent way to pass an afternoon. The cultural influences in Saarbrücken Saarbrücken boasts a diverse cultural landscape. This can be observed through its architecture, food offerings and spoken languages; as well as Franco-German institutions and projects. The Basilica of Saint John, an exquisite Baroque beauty, provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of main shopping streets. Here, visitors can relax while taking in the stunning scenery while listening to its majestic organ. The Saar Historical Museum provides a wonderful insight into this diminutive German province's long and eventful history, from before France fi