Thiergarten: Basilica, Cave Finds and Circular Routes

Thiergarten brings together the history of a remarkable basilica, archaeological finds and hikes that differ in their time requirements. Visitors who enjoy hiking and are also interested in architectural and archaeological history will find several points of interest here.

Basilica and Early History

Thiergarten’s Basilica of St. George was first documented in 1275; it is thought to have been built around the year 1000. It is considered the smallest three-aisled basilica north of the Alps. The different dates refer to distinct aspects: the date of its first documentation and a tentative estimate of when it was built.

Finds in Falkenstein Cave

Falkenstein Cave lies about 2 km from Thiergarten. Archaeological finds there include around 9,000 Mesolithic tools, implements and pieces of jewellery, as well as human skeletal remains. Alongside the basilica’s architectural history, the cave offers a different glimpse into the past. Anyone interested in early human history will find tangible artefacts here rather than another architectural account. Before visiting the cave, check the local access requirements.

Two Circular Routes, Two Timeframes

Thiergarten’s two circular routes differ considerably in length and time required. The shorter loop is 4.2 km long and passes St. George’s Bridge, the Käppeler Estate and Rabenfelsen; it takes about 1.5 hours. The 13.7 km circular route passes Falkenstein Castle ruins, Schaufelsen, Neidingen, Lenzenfelsen and Neumühle and takes about 3 to 4 hours. This makes it possible to plan the hiking portion of your trip around the time you have available. Signage and trail conditions may change with the seasons; check local information before setting out.

Regional Cuisine in Beuron-Thiergarten

The Käppeler Estate in Beuron-Thiergarten is a certified Nature Park host and serves regional cuisine as part of the Upper Danube Nature Park network. This adds a culinary connection to the region’s hiking and cultural attractions. Check opening hours and availability before your visit.

Beuron: More Circular Routes and an Exhibition

Beuron also has circular routes with varied distances and destinations. Beuron Circular Route 1 is 7.0 km long and runs from the railway station via the railway bridge, Liebfrauental, Gallushof, Jägerhaus and Talweg to the monastery car park, then back past the monastery to the station. Beuron Circular Route 2 covers 8.4 km. It runs from the monastery car park via the historic covered wooden bridge, the barbecue area, Knopfmacherfelsen, Jägerhaus and Liebfrauental, returning to the monastery car park.

Beuron Circular Route 3 is 6.7 km long and passes Maria Trost, the Rauher Stein hiking lodge, the alpine garden and the Eichfelsen viewpoint. Beuron Circular Route 5 is also 6.7 km long and passes Maurusfelsen and St. Maurus Chapel. At 9.8 km, Beuron Circular Route 4 is the longest of these five trails; its stops include Alpenblick, Wildenstein Castle and St. Maurus Chapel. The two 6.7 km routes therefore lead to different listed destinations, while Route 4 covers the greatest distance.

Beuron’s cultural attractions also include the permanent exhibition “Adventure Diversity” at the House of Nature. Admission is free; check the admission conditions before your visit.

Discover More Destinations

Schwäblishausen, Bad Saulgau, Mengen, Leibertingen, Neufra, Illmensee, Waldbeuren, Pfullendorf

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