[/floatright]The Frundsbergfest has become one of the largest historical festivals in Germany. Since 1853, Mindelheimers have held celebrations every three years to commemorate the renowned German medieval knight and landowner, Georg von Frundsberg. Frundsberg was born in Mindelheim in 1473 and retained his principle seat there until 1528.The celebration largely takes place in the walled 'old' town, and involves over 2000 participants, many of whom dress up in medieval costume - for 10 days, the town 'returns' to the Middle Ages. There are plays, 'lichtspiele', processions, concerts, crafts, farmers markets, “Gaukeley and danzerey� (which I think means general bacchanalia), and lots more besides. Beer and food (even medieval-style pigs on spits) are plentiful.
I went there for the last two festivals (in 2000 and 2003), and had a top day out, just walking around soaking up the 'medieval' atmosphere, watching the processions, partaking of a few olde customs, and drinking beer. I was amazed at how much effort went into it all - better than anything similar I've seen in the UK.
It's best to go on either Sunday when they have the main procession (which includes loads of animals, flag-wavers, pike-bearers, knights, monks, archers, maidens etc...)...
Tickets to get into the Old Town for the festival cost €4 (you can buy them in advance or on the day). You have to buy tickets if you want to view the procession from a seated position on one of several stands, and if you want to see certain other events.
Getting there:
There are hourly trains to Mindelheim from München Hbf or Pasing, and the journey takes about an hour. It's a 15-minute walk from the station to the old-town.
If you're travelling by road, take the A96 from München towards Lindau, and Mindelheim is well sign-posted (the journey time from München centre is a little over an hour).



