Uncovering the magic of Augsburg; People, places and memories.
Augsburg, a place that has now become etched in my heart as one of the most remarkable destinations I’ve ever had the privilege to visit. For six weeks, this beautiful southern part of Germany served as my haven, my launching pad for adventures across Europe and my gateway to exploring not only different countries but also the other captivating cities within Germany itself.
I was drawn to Augsburg not just by its strategic location but also by the tales my friends had shared of their idyllic childhoods here. I was eager to discover if this city still held the same enchantment that had colored their memories. And I must say, it did not disappoint.
The first marvel that took my breath away was the golden room at the Augsburg Rathaus. Literally a room adorned with gold and art from wall to wall, except for the floor. Stepping into that space was like entering a fairytale. The level of detail and artistic genius on display was simply staggering. I found myself standing there, awestruck, unable to fathom the craftsmanship that had gone into creating such a magnificent chamber.
During my stay, I strolled through the Augsburg city centre, indulging in the local cuisine and savoring the delicious ice cream while taking in the sights. One thing that truly endeared me to Bavaria, and Augsburg in particular, was the painstaking effort they put into preserving their old architectural style. It was like walking through a living history book.
Watching a Bavarian band, resplendent in their traditional attire, play in a tucked-away beer garden was an absolute delight. It was a moment straight out of a postcard. And of course, I couldn’t resist trying the famous Bavarian beer. After hearing so much about it, I finally had the chance to experience it for myself. We sat there, sipping beer from large German jars, with a beautiful backdrop and the melodious sounds of the band filling the air. It was pure magic.
As we drove through the countryside, the smell of fresh grass and the vast stretches of farmland were a sight to behold. On one such drive, we stopped at a charming cattle farm. For just one euro, we got a bottle of fresh milk from a vending machine. I was initially hesitant to try it, assuming it was like the untreated milk back home in Uganda. But when I took that first sip, I was blown away. It was some of the best milk I had ever tasted, and I knew I would be back for more.
To my surprise, one of my adventures in Augsburg included picking up a golf club. I found myself on the green with friends, swinging away. Miraculously, I didn’t do too badly for a first-timer. In fact, my friends were convinced I had played before. I guess I was just on the lucky side of beginner’s luck that day.
In a world filled with chaos, Augsburg is a calm and peaceful oasis. Compared to the hustle and bustle of Chinese cities I’m used to and the noisy streets of Kampala where I grew up, this is a silent paradise nestled in the heart of Bavaria. I watched in admiration as young families strolled by, parents and children walking hand in hand. It truly is a place where one could imagine raising a family in harmony.
In the midst of Augsburg's many wonders, the botanical garden stands as a serene oasis of natural beauty. The botanical garden is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a moment of tranquility. Its lush greenery and vibrant blooms create a kaleidoscope of colors that change with the seasons.
One of the highlights within the botanical garden is the Japanese garden. Stepping into this meticulously designed space is like being transported to a different world. The carefully arranged rocks, the gently flowing water features, and the meticulously pruned bonsai trees all contribute to an atmosphere of Zen-like calm. The Japanese garden in Augsburg is a testament to the city's appreciation for different cultures and its ability to incorporate elements of beauty from around the world into its own landscape. It offers a perfect spot for quiet contemplation, where one can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and simply immerse themselves in the harmony of nature. Whether it's the delicate cherry blossoms in spring or the fiery hues of the maple leaves in autumn, the Japanese garden is a constantly evolving work of art that never fails to captivate and soothe the soul.
Just when I thought I had uncovered all of Augsburg’s secrets, I stumbled upon a fascinating discovery. The largest Mazda museum outside of Japan is right here in Augsburg. I wasn’t a big Mazda fan before, but after stepping into that museum and seeing the stunning vintage pieces of automotive art, I was completely won over. It’s a sight that should not be missed if you ever find yourself in this city.
Germany is known for its abundance of churches, and Augsburg is no exception. I had the honor of visiting several churches in and around the city. Each one boasted the old baroque gothic architecture that left me spellbound. The Weiskirche on the way to the Allgau, the main cathedral with its magnificent windows, and the small yet remarkable church of St Anne in the heart of Augsburg all had their own unique charm. But it was the St Anne’s Church that truly left a lasting impression. With the Catholic and Anglican churches sharing the same space without a dividing wall, it was a powerful symbol of unity. Coming from a place where religion is often misused to create division, this was a refreshing and inspiring sight.
It was summer, and the fields were ripe for harvest. I cycled through the countryside, with wheat and corn fields stretching as far as the eye could see. The rides were so magical that I almost regretted not filming the entire experience. But I was too busy soaking in every moment, feeling the wind in my hair and the sun on my face.
While the scenery and architecture of Augsburg are truly captivating, it is the people who make this place truly special. The locals are warm, welcoming, and inviting. Despite looking different in many of the circles I was a part of, I never once felt out of place. Their laid-back nature and genuine hospitality made me feel right at home.
Augsburg, the land that gave birth to the story of Hansel and Gretel, still holds that same magic today. It has been an experience of a lifetime, and I am grateful to have formed a deep and special connection with this remarkable city. I will carry the memories of Augsburg with me always, and I hope that one day, others will have the chance to discover its wonders and fall in love with it just as I have.
See you on the next one,
Fred Agaba