Berchtesgaden facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Berchtesgaden
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Berchtesgaden and the Watzmann in 2010
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| Country | Germany | |
| State | Bavaria | |
| Admin. region | Oberbayern | |
| District | Berchtesgadener Land | |
| Elevation | 700 m (2,300 ft) | |
| Population
(2022-12-31)
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| • Total | 7,623 | |
| Time zone | CET/CEST (UTC+1/+2) | |
| Postal codes |
83471
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| Dialling codes | +49 8652 | |
| Vehicle registration | BGL | |
| Website | gemeinde.berchtesgaden.de | |
Berchtesgaden is a small town, or municipality, located in the beautiful Bavarian Alps in Germany. It is found in the southern part of the Berchtesgadener Land Rural District, very close to the border with Austria. The town is nestled just north of the famous Nationalpark Berchtesgaden, a protected area known for its stunning mountains and clear lakes.
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Exploring Berchtesgaden's Location
Berchtesgaden sits in a special spot surrounded by tall mountains. The most famous mountain nearby is the Watzmann, which is one of the highest peaks in Germany. The town is about 700 meters (2,300 feet) above sea level. This high location means it has amazing views and fresh mountain air.
Natural Wonders Around Berchtesgaden
The area around Berchtesgaden is famous for its incredible natural beauty. It is home to the only Alpine national park in Germany, the Nationalpark Berchtesgaden. This park protects a unique natural environment with forests, high peaks, and clear mountain lakes.
- Königssee: One of the most beautiful lakes in Germany, the Königssee (King's Lake) is a long, narrow lake known for its deep, clear water and steep cliffs. It looks like a fjord, which is a long, narrow inlet of the sea between high cliffs. Electric boats take visitors across the lake to places like St. Bartholomew's Church.
- Salt Mines: Berchtesgaden has a long history of salt mining. The salt mines here have been active for over 500 years. Today, visitors can take tours deep into the mines to learn about how salt was extracted and its importance to the region.
A Glimpse into Berchtesgaden's History
Berchtesgaden has a rich and interesting history that goes back many centuries. It was first mentioned in official records in the year 1102. For a long time, it was not just a regular town. It was a special area ruled by a religious leader called a Prince-Provost. This made Berchtesgaden a unique and important place in the region.
From Monastery to Royal Retreat
The area started with a monastery, a place where monks lived and worked. Over time, the leaders of this monastery gained more power and became Prince-Provosts. They ruled the area almost like kings, making their own laws and collecting taxes. This lasted for many hundreds of years.
Later, in the 19th century, Berchtesgaden became a favorite spot for the royal family of Bavaria. They built beautiful homes and enjoyed the peaceful mountain scenery. This helped the town become a popular place for tourists.
Berchtesgaden in Modern Times
In the 20th century, Berchtesgaden continued to be a well-known place. After World War II, the town became a popular destination for American soldiers and their families stationed in Germany. Today, it is a peaceful and welcoming place, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Berchtesgaden
Berchtesgaden is a fantastic place for people who love nature and outdoor adventures. There are many activities for visitors of all ages.
- Hiking and Mountain Climbing: With the Alps all around, there are countless trails for hiking, from easy walks to challenging climbs up the Watzmann.
- Winter Sports: In winter, the area turns into a snowy wonderland. There are ski resorts and places for snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and sledding.
- Boating on Königssee: Taking an electric boat ride on the Königssee is a must-do. The quiet boats allow you to enjoy the stunning views and the famous echo.
- Visiting the Salt Mines: The Berchtesgaden Salt Mine offers an exciting tour where you can slide down wooden slides and ride a mine train.
- Exploring the Town: The town itself has charming old buildings, shops, and restaurants where you can try traditional Bavarian food.
Berchtesgaden offers a wonderful mix of history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes, making it a great place to visit and explore.
Images for kids
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U.S. soldiers toast the capture of Berchtesgaden (1945)
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Aerial view of Berchtesgaden
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Berchtesgaden in the morning
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The former Royal Castle at Berchtesgaden
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Hermann von Barth
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The Watzmann from Berchtesgaden
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View of Berchtesgaden towards the Königssee
