Category Archives: History
What to do with a History Degree?
Ever since I have been studying history, people who think that every means needs to have an end have been asking: “What do you want to do with that?” My honest answer: I want to know more and to understand … Continue reading
In the King’s Footsteps (Day 9) Neuschwanstein Castle
Zur deutschen Fassung dieses Berichts. 148 Neuschwanstein lies high above the valley, on a rock that is not really suitable for construction. The local authorities should never have approved this. I am sure there were some bribes involved… It takes … Continue reading
In the King’s Footsteps (Day 8) Hohenschwangau Castle
Zur deutschen Fassung dieses Artikels. 123 Although it’s a local bus, operated by the City of Füssen, bus no. 78 shows the destination only in English: “Hohenschwangau Castles”. This must be the loss of German culture that some people are … Continue reading
Film Review “Capital in the 21st Century”
I am usually an advocate of reading the book before the movie – or indeed of only reading the book and not spoiling it. But I haven’t yet been in the mood to delve into Thomas Piketty’s 570-page book analyzing … Continue reading
The Holy Ghosts of the Azores
After several months of research in archives, in old ruins, and especially in every bar on the island, I am ready to disclose the mysteries I have uncovered – from Holy Ghosts to the Holy Grail. Continue reading
In the King’s Footsteps (Day 6) Walden
Another day that would not end in a warm bed, but outside in a rainy night… Until I discovered a hut deep in the forest.
Continue reading
In the King’s Footsteps (Day 5) Ammer Gorge
I had barely survived the night in the cemetery. I had not found anything to eat. And yet, on the fifth day of the hike, I would face the most dangerous part: the Ammer Gorge.
Luckily, I would soon bump into two pilgrims. Continue reading
Why is German reunification celebrated on 3 October?
Today, Germany celebrates the 30th anniversary of the reunification of East and West Germany on 3 October 1990. The history buffs among you will know that the Berlin Wall fell almost a year earlier, on 9 November 1989. So why … Continue reading
In the King’s Footsteps (Day 4) The Longest Day
On the fourth day of the hike through Bavaria, I discover the secret 5G factory, climb the highest mountain and spend the night in a cemetery.
Continue reading
In the King’s Footsteps (Day 3) Lake Ammer
On the third stage of my hike, I was just about to set up my camp in a park, when a helpful stranger invited me into his lakeside villa.
Continue reading
The Happy Hermit 