Backofenfest in the Hohenlohe Open-Air Museum Wackershofen

Hohenlohe Traditions in the Open-Air Museum

The Hohenlohe Open-Air Museum in Wackershofen, a district of Schwäbisch Hall, is one of the most beautiful open-air museums in Southern Germany. Over 70 historic buildings from the Hohenlohe region have been reconstructed here according to traditional building methods: farmhouses, mills, chapels, distilleries, a synagogue, and several bakehouses. These very bakehouses become the focal point during the Backofenfest.

Blooz, Bread, and Old Recipes

"Blooz" is the Hohenlohe counterpart to Flammkuchen or pizza – a thin dough base with toppings, baked crispy in the historic ovens. In addition, "Rosenküchle" (rose fritters), "Flachswickel" (a type of twisted pastry), "Grünkernküchle" (spelt fritters), and hearty farmer's breads come out of the ovens. Around 80 stalls present artisanal foods – from local apple cider and Hohenlohe country dishes to Schwäbisch Hall sausages.

Blacksmith, Distillery, Community Bakehouse

Beyond the baking craft, the Backofenfest showcases the full spectrum of rural tradition: The blacksmith's forge is in operation, the distillery is distilling fruit brandies, and in the community bakehouse, farmers' wives work together on a batch as they used to. The stations are not just for watching – many invite participation: blacksmithing courses, bread baking, spinning, basket weaving.

Music, Dance, and Animal Competitions

Traditional dance and music groups from Hohenlohe and Franconia perform in the spaces between the buildings. Animal competitions – from pedigree sheep and chickens to Hohenlohe cattle breeds – have been part of the program for years. For children, there's the Princess Gisela Theatre (puppet show), carousels, and an organ grinder walking through the museum. On Sunday, Circus Compostelli will also perform.