Polaroid of the Week: Rediscovering Erfurt's Fairytale Charm in Germany
I recently left Berlin for a quick trip home to visit loved ones and photograph a close friend's wedding. Erfurt, my hometown, often feels distant after years away—a classic case of outgrowing one's roots. I rarely return unless family or friends draw me back, keeping visits brief.
This time was different. Visiting in summer with a first-time guest refreshed my perspective on this understated gem. I wandered cobblestone streets lined with meticulously restored half-timbered houses, admired the imposing cathedral, and lingered in picturesque squares dotted with cozy cafes and restaurants. Warm evenings brought al fresco dinners, riverside picnics, a lively wine festival, and invigorating runs with my favorite partner. While the Kraemerbruecke—the unique bridge lined with houses (pictured above)—may not dazzle me like tourists, I understand its allure and felt a spark of hometown pride sharing hidden favorites. Quaint Erfurt contrasts sharply with bustling Berlin or New York, offering a refreshing slower pace after months in big cities.
