On the German Timber-frame Road #1 – Hoechst

Do you know where to find the oldest church in Frankfurt or its only ferry? These sounds like cool quiz questions, but actually they are just not so obvious attractions hidden in the suburbs in the place called Hoechst.

City of Hoechst was integrated into Frankfurt in 1928. It takes just 10 minutes by train from Frankfurt Hbf to reach it. It is beautifully located on the banks of the Main. Therefore, it is popular among cyclists who make trips along the river.

Hoechst is well known for its industrial park with company of the same name and the porcelain manufacture.

My main impression is that it is a place of contrasts. It is part of Frankfurt metropolis, but remains peaceful and keeps its own small town identity. The medieval character of the city is mixed with modern industry. On the streets of old town with timber-framed houses, fancy and expensive cars are parked.  Beautiful landscape with a river is crossed by the highway. Skyscrapers on the horizon contrast nicely with green trees of the park.

The place I usually visit first is tourist information center to get at least a city plan. In Hoechst it is part of newsagent’s store, so can be easily missed.

On Saturday mornings most of the people can be found at the market. It is opened from 7 till 13. One can find there fresh meat, fruit, vegetables and flowers.

The market is surrounded by medieval streets. This well preserved area is part of the German Timber-Frame Road. The oldest building in Frankfurt is Saint Justin’s Church built in 830.

Nearby, there is the Schlossplatz – a square with traditional inn: Gasthaus Zum Bären. It is a nice stop to have a sausage and beer and to admire the view to the castle. Since it is much higher than the river level, the view towards central part of Frankfurt is very nice.

Just a few steps away there is the only ferry in Frankfurt that goes between Hoechst and Schwanheim, where part of the city forest is.

From river banks there is also nice panorama to whole city. One of interesting spots there is the Bolongaro Palace with exhibitions of Hoechst porcelain.

It was my first stop on the Timber-Frame Road. It feels like time pass a bit slower there. So it is a perfect place for short one day trip to sit by the river, enjoy the Old Town and slow down for a moment.

Hoechst in B&W: