Picture the scene. You are standing at the entrance to Marktschellenberg a charming market town nestled in the heart of the Berchtesgadener Land. Marktschellenberg’s history stretches back centuries. It was once a vital part of the Prince-Provostry of Berchtesgaden. This powerful ecclesiastical principality ruled over this region for many years.
Marktschellenberg wasn’t just any village. It served as the second most important settlement after Berchtesgaden itself. Can you imagine the bustling activity? The importance of this town is linked to salt. Marktschellenberg boasted its own salt works. These were in operation until 1805. A salt office was established here in 1292. It was initially run by lay officials. These were called Hallingers. These Hallingers were later Augustinian canons. They were important administrators for the Prince-Provostry.
The town’s strategic position close to the Austrian border also made it significant. Three border crossings lead to Salzburg. You could almost feel the energy of trade and commerce in this area. The echoes of those times still resonate through the cobbled streets.
The Reformation also touched Marktschellenberg. Local salt and timber traders brought back Protestant ideas from cities like Augsburg and Nuremberg. The nearby Austrian town of Dürrnberg became a center for Protestantism. It was close enough to have an effect. Miners from Marktschellenberg’s Gnotschaften Au and Scheffau interacted with Saxon miners. Many were open to the new religious ideas. However this was not tolerated. The Protestant inhabitants were expelled in 1733. About 800 people from Au Scheffau and Gern left for Regensburg and then to Hanover.
After the secularization of 1803 Marktschellenberg changed hands several times. In 1810 it finally became part of the Kingdom of Bavaria. The end of salt mining impacted its economy. Luckily tourism later helped revitalize the town.
Today you can see traces of Marktschellenberg’s rich past. The oldest marble ball mill in Germany is located here. It has been producing marble balls using water power since 1683. The Pfarrkirche St Nikolaus the parish church is a sight to behold. It was built around 1407 and rebuilt in 1870. The impressive tower dating from 1511 remains.
The Schellenberger Ice Cave is another popular attraction. It opened to the public in 1925. The Almbachklamm gorge is stunning and accessible via bridges and walkways. Marktschellenberg retains its charm. It is a place where history and nature meet in perfect harmony. Enjoy your time exploring this unique town. You will not regret it.