A view of Esslingen and the Church of St. Dionysius on the Neckar River
An Esslingen landmark - the balancing man on Schelztor Tower
One of the few towns not bombed in WWII, it's still intact and gorgeous
Esslingen is the definition of charming
The medieval town wall and towers are still standing
The hills surrounding Esslingen are covered in vineyards
This is a great example of Esslingen's half-timbered fachework buildings
A closer look at the ironwork balancing man
Town Hall overlooks the square and Christmas Market
Everything about this market is vivid and colorful and alive
One sweet booth - gingerbread and candy for sale
A Knight to Remember - a vendor sells children's costumes
Miniature versions of Esslingen are available to take home
If the market doesn't enchant you, the town will
The Church of St. Dionysius towers over the market
I just can't get enough of this half-timbered fachework style
I love German pyramids, and this one takes the big prize
A medieval ferris wheel - children just can't get enough
Oh, if only these were easier to pack!
An old-fashioned game of chance I like to call Mouse House
Pick the same house as the mouse, and you'll win a prize
This spicy lamb gyro was a revelation; it was awesome!
A medieval fire dancer twirls flaming balls as musicians play
Even the Garlic Lady's booth is a work of art
Peeking in the window of the Gingerbread House workshop
Luminaries and candles are a Christmas market tradition
Booth-top gnomes watch over the Esslingen market
There were so many beautiful ornaments for sale
I fell in love with these paper star luminaries - so beautiful
Handcrafted German nutcrackers - now we're talking!
I could just sit and stare at this beautiful little town all day long
Thank you, Esslingen. Your medieval Christmas Market captivated me.
Your rich history and stunning architecture delighted me
And your fairytale village thoroughly enchanted me. The End.
Inside NanaBread's Head 