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Trails and Temples
Reflection Points in the Taunus
When out on the wonderful Taunus area hiking trails, there are a few types of shelter structures you might encounter : Towers (Türme), huts (Hüt- ten) and temples (Tempel), which are the focus of this article. In addition to protecting visitors from the elements, our local area hiking temples provide an open place for re- flection and enhance the enjoyment of the peaceful setting and natural beauty of our local trails.
After moving to Germany and having an opportunity to get out and about on hiking trails in the area, I came upon the Gilboa Tempel, in Kronberg. It was built in 2010 and celebrates the relationship of the city of Kronberg with Gilboa, Israel. It is a simple and spare, yet beautiful wooden structure – especially when seen in morning light – and is still hands down my favorite. Nonetheless I was a bit confused as to why it was called a ‘Tempel’ since my associations with that word were of a building with more elaborate construction – something like the Thai Temples which can be found in Bad Homburg as well as in their native Thailand. But that’s another story.
My discovery of the Gilboa Tempel led me to search out others in the area, which are highlighted below along with
directions on how to access them by a trailhead nearby. As with any hike/outdoor adventure, it is best to take along a trail map (available for purchase at most local bookstores) on your journey, as well as a drink/snack to enjoy at one of these temple destinations.
The Gilboa Tempel is new enough that it is not listed on many area maps, but it is located on the Hühnerberg peak which is a notable landmark. My favorite way to approach the tempel is from a parking lot where Altkönigstrasse in Oberhöchstadt (Kronberg) reaches the B455. Heading up from this parking lot takes you past a huge boulder (great fun for little ones to explore). Going to the tempel from this direction also affords a great view of Altkönig (the second- highest peak in the local mountain range, after the Feldberg). The Gilboa Tempel is also accessible from the Waldschwimmbad parking lot in Kronberg (Am Waldschwimmbad, 61476 Kronberg).
The Waldschwimmbad parking lot is also a good starting point for a visit to the Viktoria Tempel, named for Kaiserin (Empress) Victoria, the German Empress, Queen of Prussia (also known locally as the “Engländerin” due to her upbringing in Great Britain). The tempel is located near her
16 FIS World October 2015