In Idar-Oberstein, there is a castle but that isn't the main attraction in this town. The church built into the rocks is what catches the eye of visitors and growing up in the area, I quickly learned the legend of this church.
Once upon a time, there were two brothers who were in love with the same girl but neither knew how the other brother felt. Wyrich, the eldest, went away on business and while he was gone Emich, the youngest, secured the affection of Bertha, the girl both brothers were in love with, and married her before Wyrich returned. When the eldest brother returned and learned about the marriage he became very angry and he fought with his brother which resulted in Emich being pushed out of the castle window to his death. Wyrich felt very guilty and sad and wanted forgiveness but couldn't seem to find it. One day the abbott suggested he build a church in honor of his brother at the exact spot where his body landed. Wyrich built the church and when he was finished he asked God for a sign that he was forgiven. Almost instantly, a spring sprung up in the church and has been there ever since. He took this to mean he was forgiven and shortly after the Abbott found him dead in the church and buried him with his brother. Nobody really knows what happened to Bertha...some say she died of a broken heart.
Also, the city is known all over the world for its gems and minerals. The stores lining the streets are filled with many gems and you are sure to find something in the style you want... necklaces, bracelets and earrings.
Then if you are a BIG fan of Bruce Willis you already know he was born here. His mom is German and his dad was in the military stationed in Germany.
My kids are standing in front of the spring in the church.
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