Schlüsselfeld: Baroque Church, Old Town and Steigerwald

Schlüsselfeld lies in the Steigerwald and in the valley of the Reichen Ebrach, around 30 kilometers southwest of Bamberg. The Baroque Church of St. Mary, medieval traces in the townscape, and walking and cycling routes give a stay here several different focal points. When choosing accommodation, you can consider whether you mainly want to explore the town’s history, spend time outdoors, or combine the two.

Baroque Church Art and History in the Townscape

Schlüsselfeld’s Church of St. Mary is dedicated to the patronage of “Mary, Help of Christians” and is considered a faithful copy of the famous pilgrimage site of Mariazell in Styria. In the high altar, a canopy supported by twelve columns houses the miraculous image. Crowns were acquired for the Madonna and Child; on feast days, the miraculous image is dressed in specially made garments. The rest of the Baroque furnishings also reward a closer look: they include the altar used for the celebration of Mass, installed in 1998, two side altars, the pulpit and a typical Franconian Baroque organ.

Another way to explore the town’s history is through its townscape. The Upper Gate is part of the medieval, Late Gothic fortifications. The market square brings together the St. Peter’s Fountain, restored Baroque townhouses and a row of lime trees. Those wishing to focus on historic architecture and the town’s development will find a range of points of interest here, from the church interior to the public square.

Walks with Different Focal Points

The Historic Circular Trail is a walk of about 2.4 kilometers through the medieval old town. Its 28 stops explore the history and stories of Schlüsselfeld. The Forest Discovery Trail also begins in Schlüsselfeld, is 2.5 kilometers long and follows forestry tracks. Its eight stations offer entertainment for adults and children. The routes are similar in length but have different emphases: one focuses on local history and the old town, the other on the forest trail and its stations.

For a longer cycling trip, there is the Prince-Bishop’s Tour. It is 204 kilometers long and, according to the route description, begins and ends in Schlüsselfeld. The route is signposted throughout in both directions. This clearly sets it apart from the two shorter walks: it is an option for an extended bike tour, while the circular trails explore their themes over routes of around two and a half kilometers.

The Schlüsselfeld Kneipp facility is located close to nature on the Reichen Ebrach. Its pool is about 15°C and fed by the river. This provides another distinct option alongside the walking and cycling routes.

Culture and Seasonal Traditions

Established in 1997, the “Culture in Old Walls” program includes theater, cabaret, poetry readings, music, and art and informational exhibitions. Since then, it has attracted a circle of loyal friends. If you would like to combine your stay with culture, the program offers a broad range of formats, from stage performances to exhibitions.

The Schlüsselfeld Nativity Trail features lovingly crafted nativity scenes from different periods and styles at around thirty locations. It traditionally opens with the large nativity scene in the market square on the first Sunday of Advent. This date is a useful seasonal reference point if you would like to connect your trip with the nativity tradition.

Getting Here and Choosing a Base

Schlüsselfeld has its own exit on the A3 federal highway between Nuremberg and Würzburg and is part of the Greater Nuremberg Transport Association (VGN). These details help with travel planning, but do not define the character of the activities available locally. The city, around 30 kilometers southwest of Bamberg, is also specifically located in the Steigerwald and in the valley of the Reichen Ebrach.

Discover More Destinations

Rattelsdorf, Baunach, Altendorf, Hirschaid, Memmelsdorf, Bischberg, Ebrach, Burgebrach

For the main travel overview: Bamberg.