Fireplace
Fire in the spotlight
In the heart of the ‘Hexenwald’ (Witch’s Forest), a campfire burns brightly during the months of July and August, casting its glow in the shade of towering trees. It reveals to us the primal force of the flames, a phenomenon that has fascinated humans for millennia. The flickering, crackling center feels both magical and uniting, and we experience an impressive power as we focus on the fire. Coincidentally, the Latin word ‘focus’ means hearth or fire pit.
Sit down, listen to the crackling, enjoy the scent, share stories, or roll up your sleeves and try your hand at baking “Steckerlbrot” (stick bread) by the fire. We’re fired up and ready for your visit!
Let’s bake it! From wheat to bread…
The most valuable witchcraft often involves the seemingly simple and small things that affect our daily lives, like bread. Sometimes, the witches whisper to their guests: “Sitting by the fire is easy, but making the fire is much harder. Eating bread is no magic, but making bread requires patience!”
We’ll show you how it’s done, step by step. Each golden spelt grain is ground with your muscle power into a fine flour. Mixed with witch water and a pinch of stone salt, we knead and roll the dough rhythmically, creating a delicious texture. And, as with all things magical, it requires a little patience to let the true magic unfold.
You’ll taste it: In this little loaf lies a big portion of your personality.
The magic of stories
Throughout the history of humankind, fire has held a captivating spell that we can scarcely escape. About 400,000 years ago, humans began systematically harnessing it. This development is considered one of the most significant evolutionary steps. The lightning bolt, often attributed to witches, showed us the way. With a deafening crack, it struck an ancient tree, splitting it in two with flames. What remained were charred coals and the knowledge of the precious existence of fire. The hot flames brought warmth, light, protection from predators, and made food easier to digest.
Today, it’s easy to create fire, but do you know how to start a fire without matches or a lighter? Perhaps you’re lucky, and the wise fire keeper waiting at the fire pit will share some insights on “Playing with Fire.” You’ve probably tried using the power of the sun and a magnifying glass as children, drawn to the thrill of the forbidden and the allure of experimentation.
But did you know how fire can also be sparked with the strike of stones and metals, tinder from dried tree fungi, or the friction of a fire stick? We invite you to reflect on these methods and revel in childhood memories. Can you recall a spine-tingling campfire story from your youth? Share the spark with us!
At the fireplace
